Interviews / Kazakhstan

The STEAM industry is full of stigmas and stereotypes that suggest that the industry is not meant for women states Leila Saidzade, Head Of Exploration – UNDP Azerbaijan. (more…)

Writing about religion is a difficult task that needs a special approach. It is critical for a journalist to maintain an open mind and avoid biased approach. (more…)

The situation with the freedom of speech in Central Asia has become worse over the last few years. The countries of the region apply new restrictions to bloggers and the media, block websites and close editorial offices, while detaining and initiating criminal cases against journalists.

CABAR.asia spoke to editors of media outlets about what is happening to journalism in the states of Central Asia today and what challenges and restrictions are faced by the media. (more…)

The town of Turkestan in Kazakhstan has become a spot of attraction of Muslims due to philosopher, preacher and Sufi poet Khoja Yasawi. A mausoleum has been built over the tomb of this saint by order of Amir Timur. It is still the place of worship for Muslims not only from Kazakhstan, but also from all over the world. (more…)

Can artists stand up for natural boundaries, preserve lakes or plant forests? It turns out they can. Aigerim Kapar, contemporary art curator, founder of the contemporary art and public interaction platform ‘Artcom Platform’, co-initiator of the movement to preserve lakes in Astana ‘SOS Taldykol’, and the project on care about Lake Balkhash ‘Balqashqa Qamqor’, told about how artists respond to environmental challenges, how they engage the society and government institutions in problem-solving. (more…)

In Kazakhstan, participants of discussions often turn to religion for arguments when discussing clothing, behaviour and similar phenomena either tabooed or allowed by religion. They say that traditional religious views of their ancestors allowed this and did not allow that, and descendants must follow the same path. (more…)

In a year marked by further democratic backsliding, CABAR has spoken with Dr Anna Matveeva to dissect the evolution of authoritarianism in Central Asia. Dr. Matveeva, renowned for her insights into post-Soviet political dynamics, explores the nuanced trajectories of autocratic regimes in the region, exploring the mechanics of autocratic developments, the regimes’ authoritarian learning tactics, and the precarious future of democracy after the pandemics.
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Protests in Kazakhstan, no matter what goals are pursued by activists, are taken by authorities as a threat to the existing political regime. Back in 2019, when Nursultan Nazarbayev stepped down from presidency, there was some easing of restrictions on the right to peaceful assembly. However, it did not last long: in January 2022, the bloodiest riot in the history of the country (Kantar) occurred, which resulted in 238 people killed, including two children and six teenagers. (more…)

What are think tanks of Kazakhstan today? What role do experts play in shaping the country’s political course? How is expert knowledge translated into tangible programs and real reforms? We asked Dr. Vera Axyonova, a researcher at the University of Vienna, these and many other questions.
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As Central Asia grapples with systemic corruption and escalating climate challenges, it finds itself at a pivotal juncture in its environmental trajectory. From the urban epicenters to the hinterlands, there is a palpable shift in sentiment. Amidst many complexities, the looming question remains: in the face of current adversities, might the environment emerge as the next big rallying point for Central Asia? We have talked with Professor Amanda Wooden to find out. (more…)