The five former Soviet republics that constitute Central Asia—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan—are energy-rich countries and have geostrategic significance because of their proximity to Russia and Afghanistan. RAND research has explored important aspects of the region, including its economic development, security environment, human rights practices, and political stability.
COMMENTARY
Now that Karzai has been declared the election's winner, the breach with Abdullah—the man most responsible for his original rise to power—could have very dangerous consequences. The last thing Karzai, NATO, and the United States can afford is the emergence of a renewed northern alliance, writes James Dobbins.
NEWS RELEASE
Former government and business leader Andrew Weiss has been named executive director of the RAND Business Leaders Forum and the director of the RAND Center for Russia and Eurasia, RAND Corporation President and CEO James A. Thomson announced today.
COMMENTARY
Published commentary by RAND staff: C. Asia's Great Game, in United Press International.
REPORT
To prevent deteriorating economic, political, and social conditions in Central Asia from fostering regional instability and conflict, the United States should encourage the nature and pace of political and economic reform.
COMMENTARY
Published commentary by RAND staff: Central Asia's Other 'Turkmenbashis', in Project Syndicate--an association that distributes commentaries to 291 newspapers in 115 countries.
NEWS RELEASE
January 3, 2007 News Release: RAND Evaluates Efforts to Improve Effectiveness and Human Rights Performance of Internal Security Forces in 4 Nations.
REPORT
U.S. efforts to improve the effectiveness and human rights performance of internal security forces have been partially successful in Afghanistan and El Salvador, but far less successful in Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
RESEARCH BRIEF
This research brief assesses the economic dimensions of security in post-Soviet Central Asia and considers their implications for the role of the United States.
REPORT
Several Asian states are key to Central Asia's security and economic environment, and their actions will also affect U.S. interests in the region. Although some of these states fear the U.S. military presence in the region, others appreciate its strong role in promoting stability.
RESEARCH BRIEF
This research brief highlights the nature of Asian states' interests and influence in Central Asia, as well as their interpretations of U.S. intentions in the region, as a starting point for shaping future U.S. policy in Central Asia.
REPORT
Access to military facilities in Central Asia was an important part of U.S. counterterrorism operations after 2001. While there is no driving force for a permanent presence in the region, a limited relationship will be needed to protect U.S. interests.
RESEARCH BRIEF
This research brief highlights key factors in South Asia imperiling U.S. interests, and suggests steps the U.S. military might take to advance and defend U.S. interests in the region.
COMMENTARY
Published commentary by RAND staff: Why America Shouldn't Sever Uzbekistan Ties, appearing in Balitmore Sun.
RESEARCH BRIEF
This research brief analyzes the implications of economic, political, and social trends in Central Asia and examines the U.S. military role in the area.
REPORT
In the region of Central Asia and South Caucasus, what is the potential for armed conflict, and how might such outbreaks escalate to a level that could involve U.S. forces? The authors evaluate the key political, economic, and societal faultlines underlying the likelihood of conflict in the region, assessing their implications for regional stability and for U.S. interests and potential involvement over the next 10 to 15 years.
RESEARCH BRIEF
Proposes an approach that the United States can take to help preserve stability in Asia in the face of the region's changing security environment.
REPORT
The author examines the various options for Caspian oil export and argues that the United States should support a pipeline route through Ukraine to Europe.
REPORT
This report examines the foundation of China's policies toward Russia and the five republics of Central Asia, identifies the combination of issues and environmental conditions likely to shape the policies' evolution, and assesses their potential impact on regional or global U.S. interests.
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