Central Asia’s five “Stans”—Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan—are often shrouded in mystery, their political landscapes and cultural identities shaped by a complex history. These nations, remnants of the Soviet Union, continue to navigate the delicate balance between authoritarian governance and regional stability.
According to Kirill Nourzhanov from the Centre for Arab and Islamic Studies at ANU, the region’s strong presidential rule is widely perceived as a guardian of stability, a sentiment echoed by the populace who prioritize stability over political freedom. Tajikistan’s brutal civil war in the 1990s, which claimed around 100,000 lives, underscores the importance of stability in the region. President Emomali Rahmon’s role in restoring peace is still remembered as pivotal.
The Authoritarian Legacy
Luca Anceschi, a Central Asian Studies expert at the University of Glasgow, emphasizes that the region has seen little liberalization. “The politics of the region have been governed in an authoritarian manner for over 30 years,” he notes, pointing to the Soviet era’s lingering influence. Despite this, there are glimpses of modernity, such as the surprising prevalence of social media in supposedly closed-off Turkmenistan, where VPNs allow residents to bypass internet restrictions.
Geopolitical Tensions: Russia and China
Geographically, the Stans are strategically positioned between Russia, China, Iran, and Afghanistan, creating a unique geopolitical dynamic. While Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 alarmed the region, Kazakhstan maintains a pragmatic relationship with Russia, benefiting from economic alliances. “There’s no prima facie rationale for Putin to act aggressively towards them,” Nourzhanov explains, highlighting the economic interdependence.
Meanwhile, China’s Belt and Road Initiative, launched in Kazakhstan in 2013, has significantly increased Chinese influence through infrastructure investments. “The Chinese presence is growing and making a real impact on daily life and economic performance in Central Asia,” Nourzhanov adds.
Cultural and Economic Ties
Turkey also plays a crucial role, with cultural and linguistic ties linking it to the Stans. The Organisation of Turkic States, formed in 2009, underscores these connections, aiming to foster economic and cultural cooperation. The Times of Central Asia reports that “culture, including language, plays crucial roles in the group’s ambitions to create a unified Turkic world.”
Despite these influences, radical Islam remains a concern. Groups like Islamic State Khorasan Province pose a threat, though the secular governments of the Stans remain vigilant. The region’s young population, some of whom encountered radical ideologies in Turkey, adds complexity to the security landscape.
Emerging Self-Assurance and Regional Cooperation
Two generations after the Soviet Union’s collapse, the Stans have evolved into self-assured nation-states. Nourzhanov notes that they are no longer mere “pawns in the new Great Game,” but confident players on the global stage. This newfound confidence is reflected in growing regional cooperation. In 1994, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan formed an economic union, later joined by Tajikistan, promoting free labor movement.
Even Turkmenistan, traditionally cautious, has begun engaging in regional trade agreements. “Before long, maybe in the next 10 years, Central Asia could well become a distinct regional bloc,” Nourzhanov predicts, as the Stans develop common stances on foreign policy and energy cooperation.
Tourism and Modernization
Tourism in the Stans is on the rise, with Kazakhstan leading the way. The country’s capital, Astana, and cultural hub, Almaty, offer a blend of modernity and tradition. The New York Times praised Almaty for its “neo-nomad” cuisine and vibrant cultural scene. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan’s ancient cities, connected by bullet trains, attract millions of tourists annually.
However, travel in the region can be challenging. The Australian government advises caution due to potential crime and unrest, particularly near Afghanistan’s border. Yet, for adventurous travelers, the region’s remote landscapes offer unparalleled beauty and cultural richness.
Looking to the Future
As the Stans continue to navigate their complex geopolitical landscape, they are also carving out distinct identities. The region’s rich cultural heritage, coupled with strategic economic partnerships, positions it as a key player in global affairs. With ongoing modernization and regional cooperation, Central Asia’s future looks promising, offering a unique blend of tradition and progress.
In the words of Luca Anceschi, understanding the Stans requires looking beyond their eccentricities: “Try to understand that it all happens for a reason.” As these nations continue to evolve, they provide a fascinating case study of resilience and adaptation in a rapidly changing world.
