Missing the big picture? Retrospective on OSCE strategic thinking on Central Asia

Abstract

AbstractThe article makes two intertwining arguments about OSCE's work in Central Asia. The first is that the organization failed to engage the leaders of the region in a political dialogue, opting instead for a quasi-developmental approach centered on technical assistance projects, many of questionable provenance and of limited if not negative impact. The second is that the OSCE has failed to promote in the region its own comprehensive vision of security with the human dimension at its core, instead accepting the security notions of the region's leaders. The articles traces and discusses the key points in the OSCE's involvement in Central Asia, noting that the political influence of the organization has dissipated while the project portfolio has expanded. The article questions the wisdom of projects involving police support and assistance to other governmental power structures in the Central Asian states.