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Uzbekistan—Where Are We Now, And What’s Next?

Uzbekistan’s President Islam Karimov has held that position since the country gained independence in 1991. A great deal of uncertainty remains about who his successor might be.

by Paul Stronski

published by

Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

on August 31, 2016

Source: Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

Speaking on a panel hosted by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Carnegie’s Paul Stronski discussed the situation in Uzbekistan following the announcement that the country’s president, Islam Karimov, had been hospitalized. He was joined by Shahida Yakub and Alisher Sidik, both of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. Discussing the possibility that Karimov might not be able to continue on as president, Stronski observed that many countries will be watching the efforts to select a new president closely. He discussed what both Russia and the West will be looking for, both in terms of a candidate for president and the process. “Russia’s going to be watching very closely, hoping that whoever rises to the top is someone who is going to be favorable towards Russia, not too Western,” Stronski said.

This was originally broadcast by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.

Carnegie does not take institutional positions on public policy issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of Carnegie, its staff, or its trustees.