Region
Central Asia
Tajikistan Sets Date for Presidential Election
By Catherine Putz
There is now an official date for Tajikistan’s next presidential election: October 11.
Why Was a Solo Protester Jailed in Kazakhstan for Picketing a Chinese Consulate?
By Catherine Putz
Just because Kazakh-China relations have experienced some bumps lately doesn’t mean Nur-Sultan is ready to accept public protests on the matter.
China Changes Diplomatic Styles in Central Asia Over COVID-19
By Umida Hashimova
Why is China rushing to comment on domestic COVID-19 developments in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan?
Will Kyrgyzstan Postpone Its October Parliamentary Polls?
By Ilgiz Kambarov
A date is set, but Kyrgyz citizens have serious concerns about the safety of holding an election amid a pandemic spinning out of control.
Post-COVID, China Set to Gain in Central Asia
By Aleksey Asiryan
Beijing is well positioned to continue growing its influence in Central Asia, though some challenges remain ahead.
COVID-19, Hot Winds, or Dust? Turkmenistan Lashes out Over Tajik Weather Report
By Catherine Putz
The hottest air is coming from the Turkmen government, paranoid about admitting COVID-19 is in the country.
Volunteers to the Rescue as Virus Rages in Kyrgyzstan
By Daria Litvinova
As Kyrgyzstan’s health system collapsed, ordinary people stepped up to help.
The Tragedy of Azimjon Askarov
By Catherine Putz
Askarov’s story illustrates just how broken Kyrgyzstan’s entire system is.
Under COVID-19, Domestic Violence Intensifies in Kazakhstan
By Assem Almukhanbetkyzy and Kristi Eaton
As has been observed elsewhere in the world, quarantines in response to the COVID-19 pandemic have led to a spike in domestic violence incidents.
How Data Doomed Central Asia’s COVID-19 Responses
By Catherine Putz
As the saying goes, "There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies, and statistics."
COVID-19 in Kyrgyzstan: National Unity and Frustration
By Aruuke Uran Kyzy
Amid the pandemic, Kyrgyz are finding grassroots unity but also sharing widespread frustration with the government.
China Launches 5+1 Format Meetings With Central Asia
By Umida Hashimova
The format marks an expansion of China’s role in the region and a signal of its readiness to compete for influence.