Region
Central Asia
Constitutional Changes Ahead for Uzbekistan
By Catherine Putz
Mirziyoyev looks set to follow in his predecessor's footsteps, tinkering with the constitution to stay in power indefinitely.
Busy Times in Iran-Central Asia Relations
By Francisco Olmos
Despite past tensions, the security and economic ties between the two regions have strengthened over the past year.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov’s Economic Legacy
By Merdan Amanov
What was the state of the Turkmen economy during Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov’s presidency?
A Cycle of Perpetual Violence for the Women of Uzbekistan
By Niginakhon bintu Saida
Domestic violence has traditionally been viewed as a “family matter” in Uzbekistan, but the power dynamics are starting to change.
Central Asia’s Shadow Pandemic: Violence Against Women
By Niginakhon Uralova and Svetlana Dzardanova
Restrictions to limit the spread of COVID-19 inadvertently sparked a rise in violence against women and girls in Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.
Tokayev Downplays January CSTO Deployment to Kazakhstan
By Catherine Putz
In a recent interview, the Kazakh president again pushed back against those in Russia who say Moscow "saved" Kazakhstan in January.
Is There Room in ‘New Kazakhstan’ For New Political Parties?
By Catherine Putz
The troubles of Zhanbolat Mamai make it clear that Kazakh authorities have little interest in genuine political competition.
Geopolitics and China’s Engagement in Central Asia
By Catherine Putz
Beijing might say that there's no geopolitics wrapped up in its regional engagements, but it's plain to see.
Homophobia Feeds Corruption, Abuse in Uzbekistan
By Catherine Putz
Uzbekistan’s LGBTQ community faces discrimination and violence, but the criminalization of sexual relations between men also generates opportunities for extortion and further abuse.
Is China Hitting Back at India’s INSTC Plans?
By Nima Khorrami
A recent trip by China’s defense minister featured key stops on the planned International North South Transport Corridor, India’s answer to the Belt and Road.
Kazakhstan Leaves ‘Elbasy’ Behind, Approves Constitutional Referendum
By Catherine Putz
With 77 percent voting to approve constitutional changes that nix the "leader of the nation," Nazarbayev's star has truly faded in Kazakhstan.
Uzbekistan’s Journalists: ‘Censorship in Our Minds and Hearts’
By Cheryl L. Reed
Phone calls, smear campaigns and personal visits: How the State Security Services intimidate Uzbekistan's journalists