Uzbekistan EAEU membership

Despite Moscow’s diplomatic overtures, Uzbekistan announced on October 17 that it will not be pursuing full membership in the Eurasian Economic Union. 

The EAEU is largely ineffective in terms of economic cooperation and integration, which are paradoxically its very reasons for being.

Authorities in the Kyrgyz capital extended a ban on protests that’s been in place most of the year, hoping to head off any trouble when Putin (and Mirziyoyev) come to town.

While Russian political and military influence is dwindling, does a Russian-designed economic union have a chance to survive within the changing geopolitics of Central Asia?

Tashkent is taking its time, slowly moving toward EAEU membership and perhaps hoping to carve out exceptions in exchange for joining.

Uzbekistan is an observer in the Eurasian Economic Union, but in a recent speech it’s clear Tashkent wants to see the benefits of membership before making the leap.

Tashkent’s 2021 strategy directs several government agencies to align with a number of EAEU regulations. 

Tashkent's observer status does not earn it any of the benefits President Shavkat Mirziyoyev heralded in his remarks, but full membership appears to be the goal.

If Uzbekistan enters the EAEU, Tajikistan will have little choice but to follow.

Uzbekistan is joining the union as an an observer, but its officials have been promising the benefits of a full member.

The parliament of Uzbekistan approved observer status to the EAEU. Could it be just a deferment on membership?

Despite an earlier lack of debate or dissent, members of the Uzbek parliament have pushed back on the government’s plan for EAEU membership.