Central Asia Pushes Back On Russian Critiques
Russian officials and celebrities have become increasingly critical of the countries and peoples of Central Asia since the Kremlin launched its full-scale war on Ukraine in February 2022 — and patience is wearing thin in the region. Central Asians are pushing back against Russian lecturing, racist comments, and mistreatment of migrant laborers. Joining host Bruce Pannier to discuss Central Asia’s sharp responses to Russia’s unwanted advice and strict rules for migrants are Edward Lemon, president of the Washington-based Oxus Society for Central Asian Affairs, and Fran Olmos, a senior researcher in Central Asian affairs at Spain’s GEOPOL 21 Center and research fellow at the London-based Foreign Policy Center.
Majlis podcast
Latest Episodes
In this biweekly podcast, host Bruce Pannier welcomes expert guests to discuss significant political developments and pressing social issues affecting the nations of Central Asia.
No Safe Haven In Europe For Central Asian Opposition
Tajik opposition activist Dilmurod Ergashev arrived in Tajikistan on November 7, after he was deported from Germany, where he had been seeking asylum since 2011.
Diving Deep Into Tajikistan’s Armed Forces
The Oxus Society for Central Asian Affairs just released a detailed report on military and security forces in Tajikistan.
Central Asia Pushes Back On Russian Critiques
Russian officials and celebrities have become increasingly critical of the countries and peoples of Central Asia since the Kremlin launched its full-scale war on Ukraine in February 2022 — and…
Kazakhstan’s Controversial Nuclear Power Vote
Kazakhs will vote on October 6 in a national referendum to authorize construction of a nuclear power plant.
Russia’s Power Play In Central Asia
Russia’s longtime influence in Central Asia seemed to fade after the launch of its full-scale war on Ukraine in February 2022, as other countries pursued stronger relations with Central Asian…
The Racialization Of Central Asians In Russia
Racialization is the process of viewing a specific people with preconceived notions about them. In Russia, non-Russians — particularly people from Asia or the South Caucasus — have long been…
Decolonizing Central Asia
Russia’s historical legacy in Central Asia has come under increased scrutiny in the region since Russia launched its full-scale war in Ukraine.
Legislating Fashion In Central Asia
In late June, Tajikistan passed a law on “alien clothing” that bans certain types of Islamic attire, particularly from Arab countries, and some types of Western clothing.
Subscribe to the Central Asia in Focus Newsletter
RFE/RL’s Central Asia in Focus newsletter delivers the latest news and insights direct to your inbox.