A tragic house fire that killed five sisters in Astana epitomizes many of Kazakhstan’s social problems, as well as the widening gap between the government and the governed.
Brighter prospects for Central Asian integration come amid political and economic liberalization in Uzbekistan, hardening authoritarianism elsewhere in the region, widespread economic distress, and China’s growing influence—the five major trends that marked Central Asia in 2018.
Abkhazia, Transdniestria, and northern Cyprus, three unrecognized statelets in Europe that arose during conflicts in the twentieth century, have endured for decades. Despite many problems, they are self-governing and stable, and they show no signs of collapsing.
The five states of Central Asia — Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan — mark 27 years of independence in 2018.
Asia-Europe meetings have been held for over a decade, but they are becoming increasingly relevant. Partners from both continents want to work together more closely, so they can combat challenges to globalization and multilateralism.
Kazakhstan’s political system is quite opaque, so it is not clear what exactly is driving recent changes in the senior ranks of the government. What is clear, however, is that Kazakh society is growing restless, as socioeconomic problems in the country grow.
The State Department and USAID can pursue an array of internal and external initiatives to combat corruption globally, especially in countries that have faced recent political transitions.
Public anger at corruption has become perhaps the most powerful driver of political change around the world.
A conversation on lessons learned from the history of nuclear testing in the Soviet Union and the United States.
China and Russia have grown increasingly close over the past decade, but the imbalance of power between Beijing and Moscow is increasing. Although their partnership in Central Asia is stable for now, Chinese economic, political, and soft power is shifting the geopolitical landscape.
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