In December, foreign analytical articles highlighted several trends and events in the region including the development of wind power projects in Kazakhstan, the precedent-setting border agreement between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, as well as the experiences of individuals who were subjected to forced labor in Uzbekistan’s cotton fields and the ways Central Asia can promote collective regional identity.
Peaceful Political Activist Marat Zhylanbayev Imprisoned for Purported Extremism
The case of Marat Zhylanbayev’s imprisonment continues to be one of the main topics for foreign outlets, organizations and analytical centers focusing on political repressions in Kazakhstan. On December 2, Amnesty International released a public statement on Marat Zhylanbayev’s imprisonment. As reported, Zhylanbayev, a Kazakhstani activist and athlete, has been handed a seven-year prison sentence due to his involvement in peaceful political activities and his support for the Democratic Choice of Kazakhstan (DCK) movement. The DCK has been labeled as an extremist group by the authorities in Kazakhstan.
In response to Zhylanbayev’s imprisonment, Amnesty International has stepped forward to advocate for his immediate and unconditional release. The human rights organization has also called for an end to the ongoing reprisals against government critics in Kazakhstan. Furthermore, Amnesty International is urging the Kazakhstani government to adhere strictly to international human rights law. The case of Zhylanbayev highlights concerns regarding the treatment of political activists and the state of human rights within the country.
Wind in the Sails of Renewables in Kazakhstan
The recent Diplomat article argues that Kazakhstan has embarked on an ambitious journey to transform its energy sector by focusing on the development of wind power projects. The Central Asian nation has entered into agreements with multiple companies to bolster its renewable energy capabilities. This strategic move is part of a broader vision to shift away from traditional energy sources and embrace a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach.
The country is not only looking to meet its own energy needs through renewables but also aspires to become a key player in the global market for critical minerals. These minerals are essential for various technologies, including those used in renewable energy systems, and Kazakhstan’s entry into this market signifies its commitment to being at the forefront of the energy transition.
The article concludes that to reach its renewable energy objectives, the nation will need to attract substantial investments. The capital infusion will be crucial for building the necessary infrastructure and technology to support the growth of wind power and other renewable energy sources. As it stands, Kazakhstan is determined to overcome these hurdles and make significant strides towards a greener and more sustainable future.
Kyrgyzstan: Flag-tinkering, another Japarov nation-building exercise
The EurasiaNet platform reports that in Kyrgyzstan, President Japarov is advocating for a significant alteration to the nation’s flag, suggesting that the current emblem’s connotations are impeding the country’s progress. The new flag design he proposes is intended to symbolize independence and strength, reflecting a broader campaign by Japarov to imprint his vision on the nation. This campaign includes constitutional reforms and legislative changes.
Japarov’s initiative to change the flag is not without controversy. There is a segment of the population that opposes the modification, voicing concerns that the general public’s views are not being adequately taken into account. Critics argue that such a symbolic change should involve more inclusive dialogue and consideration of the populace’s sentiment.
On December 22, Human Rights Watch reported that Kyrgyz authorities have brought a criminal case against an activist and blogger, Aftandil Jorobekov, after he publicly opposed and called for protests against the government’s proposal to alter the country’s flag. Human Rights Watch states that the charges, which include calling for mass unrest, violate his freedom of expression and right to peaceful assembly.
Kyrgyz authorities conducted a search of Jorobekov’s residence, seizing various items, including multiple laptops and phones, and apprehended him on allegations of “calling for active disobedience to the authorities’ legal demands and for mass riots, as well as calling for violence against citizens”. These actions were prompted by a video he posted the day before on his social media accounts, wherein he criticized the government. On December 8, a court in Bishkek ordered his pretrial detention for a period of two months. In the event of a conviction, he could face a maximum sentence of eight years in prison for charges related to “mass unrest” under article 278, part 3 of Kyrgyzstan’s criminal code. Human Rights Watch (HRW urged Kyrgyz authorities to drop all charges against Jorobekov and release him.
Precedent-Setting accord Between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan May Save Exclaves
The Jamestown Foundation examines the informal agreement that has been reached between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan concerning the Tajik exclave of Vorukh, which could potentially bring an end to the military conflict between the two nations. This understanding may also set a precedent for resolving similar territorial issues in other post-Soviet states. The terms of the agreement acknowledge the continued existence of the Vorukh exclave and guarantee unobstructed transportation and communication channels between Vorukh and the main territory of Tajikistan.
The significance of this agreement lies in its potential to mark a new chapter in the management and administration of exclaves in the region, particularly in the South Caucasus. Previous lack of support for a territorial exchange led to further skirmishes between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. However, the nations have now agreed in principle that sovereignty over their respective exclaves will be maintained, while ensuring seamless access to essential transportation and communication networks.
This informal agreement is anticipated to lay the groundwork for a formal treaty that both countries aim to ratify in the future. The development is being closely monitored by other post-Soviet states, as it could influence the resolution of border disputes in the South Caucasus and beyond.
Tajikistan and the Taliban: A Lone Voice in Central Asia
The Diplomat article discusses the complex relationship between Tajikistan and the Taliban, highlighting Tajikistan’s position as the most vocal critic of the Taliban among Central Asian nations. It notes that Tajikistan has taken active steps to engage with a range of Afghan perspectives by hosting dialogues that include various Afghan voices. Despite reopening border markets with Afghanistan, the article indicates that the bilateral ties between the two countries remain tense.
Tajikistan has provided refuge to Afghan refugees and continues to offer sanctuary to former Afghan officials and opposition leaders, including members of the National Resistance Front (NRF). This support for the NRF and opposition figures has led the Taliban to regard Tajikistan as an adversary, resulting in targeted retributive attacks against the country.
The article suggests that while there have been sporadic efforts towards normalizing relations, Tajikistan’s overall policy stance towards the Taliban is expected to remain consistent in the foreseeable future. This stance is characterized by a cautious approach and a reluctance to fully embrace the Taliban, given the existing political dynamics and security concerns.
U.S. Senator Calls On Tajik President To ‘Immediately Stop Repressions’
As reported by Radio Free Liberty, U.S. Senator Ben Cardin has issued a strong appeal to Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, urging an immediate halt to the repression of peaceful demonstrators, community leaders, journalists, and activists within Tajikistan. The call for action by Senator Cardin underscores the international concern over Rahmon’s administration’s treatment of dissenting voices and its apparent disregard for fundamental democratic principles, including independent media, religious freedoms, civil society, and political pluralism.
Senator Cardin’s statement comes at a critical juncture, as it precedes a committee hearing focused on the theme of “Transnational Repression: Authoritarian Targeting Dissenters Abroad.” This hearing aims to shed light on the tactics employed by authoritarian regimes to silence opposition, even beyond their own borders.
The international human rights community has echoed Senator Cardin’s concerns, condemning the Tajik government’s use of intimidation tactics and the manipulation of judicial processes. These methods are reportedly being used to suppress individuals not just within Tajikistan but also targeting those who have fled the country’s repressive environment.
The senator’s call to President Rahmon is a clear message from the international community, advocating for the cessation of oppressive actions and the respect for human rights and democratic norms in Tajikistan.
Beijing digs in for the Central Asia-China gas pipeline
The Lowy Institute article discusses China’s strategic efforts to secure its energy needs through the Central Asia-China gas pipeline, a project aimed at transporting natural gas from Turkmenistan directly to China. This initiative is not only significant for China’s economic growth and energy diversification but also serves as a testament to its expanding influence in the Central Asian region. The pipeline is poised to have profound geopolitical and economic impacts, potentially altering the energy dynamics within the region and beyond.
Despite the potential benefits, the project is fraught with various challenges. Technical issues, production delays, and export complications are among the hurdles that could impede the pipeline’s progress. Moreover, the venture may stir political tensions, considering the complex geopolitical landscape of Central Asia.
The article underscores the dual nature of the pipeline as both an economic enterprise and a tool for power projection. As Beijing pushes forward with the pipeline’s completion, it navigates the intricate web of regional politics, underscoring its growing role as a dominant player in Central Asia. The Central Asia-China gas pipeline thus embodies China’s strategic ambitions and its pursuit of long-term energy security.
Turkmenistan: The brazen and the beautiful
The EurasiaNet platform informs that an investigative report has uncovered that in Turkmenistan, a cosmetic services center, constructed with a hefty price tag of $51 million funded by the state, was sold at a significantly reduced price to individuals closely related to the nation’s ruling family. This transaction raises concerns about potential nepotism and misuse of state resources in a country where the government’s actions are rarely held to account due to the absence of independent media outlets.
Turkmenistan’s human rights practices have been a subject of international concern, with various organizations and watchdogs highlighting issues within the country. Despite these concerns, the Turkmen government continues to prioritize the establishment and maintenance of international relationships. Additionally, it is actively engaged in the development of infrastructure projects, signaling its intent to bolster economic growth and improve the nation’s standing on the global stage.
The sale of the cosmetic services center at a discount to the ruling family’s relatives is indicative of the opaque nature of governance in Turkmenistan. It underscores the challenges faced by those advocating for transparency and accountability in a country where such principles are often overshadowed by the interests of the powerful elite.
Don’t disrupt Uzbekistan’s Russia-China balance
The Responsible Statecraft article provides an analysis of the geopolitical interactions among Russia, China, and the United States in Central Asia, with a particular emphasis on Uzbekistan. It presents the argument that the United States should navigate the complex relationships in the region with a strategy that does not disrupt the existing balance of power between Uzbekistan, Russia, and China. Instead, the authors suggest that the U.S. should prioritize peaceful cooperation and seek to capitalize on economic opportunities that the region presents.
The authors also call for the United States to reevaluate and discard outdated legislation, specifically mentioning the Jackson-Vanik Amendment, a relic of the Cold War that they believe hampers the potential for constructive engagement with Uzbekistan. By removing such legislative barriers, the article posits that the U.S. could foster a more favorable environment for cooperation.
Highlighting Uzbekistan’s role as a key regional player, the article underscores the country’s capacity to act as a facilitator among the regional great powers. The authors advocate for a U.S. foreign policy that maintains openness and flexibility in its dealings with the regional powers, thereby promoting stability and mutual economic growth in Central Asia.
‘It was very secret’: Uncovering wounds of forced labour in Uzbek cotton
The Open Democracy article sheds light on the harrowing experiences of individuals who were subjected to forced labor in Uzbekistan’s cotton fields, a practice that spanned decades. It presents personal narratives from those who, even as children, were coerced into this grueling work. The focus of the article is not only on the historical aspect of forced labor but also on the profound and lasting impact it has had on the lives of ordinary people, particularly the young.
Through these personal accounts, the article paints a vivid picture of the trauma and exploitation that were commonplace in the cotton fields. Children, stripped of their innocence and freedom, were thrust into an adult world of labor and hardship, leaving indelible scars on their lives.
Despite the implementation of recent reforms aimed at eradicating forced labor, the article underscores the lingering effects on those who suffered through it. The reforms, while a step in the right direction, cannot undo the psychological and emotional damage inflicted on the victims. The article serves as a poignant reminder of the long-term consequences of forced labor and the importance of safeguarding human rights to prevent such abuses in the future.
How can Central Asian countries promote collective regional identity
The Modern Diplomacy article examines the potential pathways through which Central Asian nations might cultivate a shared regional identity. It posits that by nurturing a regional cultural ecosystem, these countries could lay the groundwork for a stronger sense of community and shared heritage. The article suggests that such an ecosystem would not only celebrate the diverse cultures within Central Asia but also serve as a unifying force.
Furthermore, the article highlights the importance of stimulating interregional business activities. By encouraging trade and commerce across borders within the region, Central Asian countries could create economic interdependencies that would bind them closer together, fostering mutual trust and cooperation.
Additionally, the creation of a common media space is identified as a crucial step towards regional unity. The article argues that shared media platforms would facilitate the exchange of information and ideas, helping to bridge the gaps between different populations and promoting a sense of belonging to a larger Central Asian community.
Powering Progress and Energy Expansion: 2023 in Review
In its 2023 review of the Caspian Region’s energy sector, the Caspian Policy Center argues that the region underwent substantial transformations as a direct consequence of Russia’s military actions in Ukraine and the subsequent international sanctions. These events catalyzed a realignment of energy relationships and the formation of novel alliances and agreements within the region. The geopolitical turmoil prompted countries in the Caspian area to reassess their energy strategies, particularly in light of their historical dependence on Russian energy supplies.
Despite the emergence of new opportunities and partnerships, the region continues to grapple with persistent challenges. Key among these are the unresolved issues pertaining to energy infrastructure, which have been exacerbated by the sanctions and the shifting political landscape. Additionally, the Caspian Region faces difficulties in ensuring adequate heating during the winter months, a problem that has been brought into sharp focus by the recent geopolitical developments.
In response to these challenges, there is a concerted effort within the region to explore alternative energy sources. The goal is to diversify energy supplies and diminish the region’s reliance on Russia. This strategic pivot is seen as crucial for enhancing energy security and stability in the Caspian Region amidst a period of significant uncertainty and change.
A New Focus on Renewables: 2023 in Review
The Caspian Policy Center also published a review of the burgeoning emphasis on renewable energy within the Caspian and Central Asian territories. It underscored the collaborative efforts among nations in the region to advance renewable energy projects, a movement gaining momentum with the support of international stakeholders. The United States, European Union, Gulf nations, and China were identified as key global partners, actively fostering renewable energy initiatives across these regions.
The article detailed specific ventures and financial commitments from a variety of countries and corporate entities, illustrating a robust and multifaceted approach to the renewable energy sector’s expansion. This collective endeavor not only signifies a strategic pivot towards sustainable energy sources but also positions the Caspian and Central Asian regions as potential pivotal hubs for renewable energy in the future.
The narrative conveyed by the article was one of optimism and potential, highlighting the strategic geopolitical and economic shifts that are accompanying the global transition towards cleaner energy. It suggested that the region’s rich natural resources, when harnessed through renewable technologies, could play a significant role in meeting the growing global demand for sustainable energy solutions.