Content

In the News

Apr 21, 2020

Cohen in Newsweek: Pandemic or not, the US can’t afford to drop the ball on peace in Afghanistan

By Atlantic Council

Afghanistan Central Asia

In the News

Mar 22, 2020

Haring and Klain in The National Interest: Why Autocrats Love Coronavirus

By Atlantic Council

Authoritarian leaders are constantly searching for scapegoats, working to rile up the fears of their populace, and trying to tighten their grips. To them, the coronavirus pandemic is a bonanza—the liberal democracies that would typically call them out for their violence and repression are distracted with the necessities of stopping the virus in their home […]

Central Asia Coronavirus

In the News

Mar 17, 2020

Cohen in Forbes: Central Asia needs a financing solution to low oil prices

By Atlantic Council

Central Asia Energy & Environment

Long Take

Feb 29, 2020

The Greater Caspian region: A new Silk Road, with or without a new belt

By Matthew Bryza

With the signing of a US-Taliban peace agreement, now might be a good time to look ahead to how Afghanistan might strengthen its economic connectivity with both its neighbors and more distant markets.

Afghanistan Central Asia

New Atlanticist

Oct 21, 2019

Passing the baton in Turkmenistan

By Victoria Clement

The capital, Ashgabat, is whispering that the president plans to place his son Serdar in a leadership role, while he takes on the mantle of sage advisor, becoming the power behind the throne (rather than on it). In essence, Berdimuhamedow is securing hereditary succession for his son, while retaining power.

Central Asia Democratic Transitions

New Atlanticist

Oct 9, 2019

How governments can use cyber tools irresponsibly to preserve power

By Safa Shahwan

The Kazakh case serves as an example of irresponsible cyber statecraft, when governments use cyberspace and technological tools to achieve specific political goals, placing the rights of citizens, as well as their political legitimacy, on the line.

Central Asia Cybersecurity

In the News

Sep 22, 2019

Cohen in The Hill: The new Kazakhstan president comes to the UN

By Atlantic Council

Central Asia Politics & Diplomacy

Long Take

Sep 17, 2019

First glimpses of Tokayev’s Kazakhstan: The listening state?

By S. Frederick Starr

Steps towards reform in politics, law, economics, administration, civil society, and foreign relations by the new Kazakh president should compel the United States and its allies to take a more engaged and active approach to Kazakhstan.

Central Asia Democratic Transitions

New Atlanticist

Sep 4, 2019

Rising regionalism: A new trend or an old idea in need of better understanding?

By Richards Kols

The success of regionalism in Europe can be an important example for the nations of Central Asia, who remain hesitant about regional cooperation despite their shared economic, cultural, and geopolitical characteristics, and need for greater internal cohesion.

Central Asia International Organizations

EnergySource

Jun 21, 2019

Kazakhstan: The thorn in the side of Russia’s energy colossus

By Paddy Ryan

Kazakhstan, a rising regional power in the midst of economic and political transformation, may prove to be the weak link in Russia’s energy empire.

Central Asia Energy & Environment

Experts