Central Asian Region Research Articles

The Systemic Masculinism of Power: the post-Soviet Affliction of History and Ideology

This text is an attempt to outline one of the most deep-rooted systemic challenges of the post-Soviet experience of independence. The article analyzes closely related phenomena of post-Soviet systems of power and their narrative: masculinism and the non-attachment of women in political discourse and their subordinate significance in sociocultural understanding. The diagnosis presented here is an attempt to theorize the systemic masculinism of power through some practical cases that can be attributed to post-Soviet autocratic regimes. Systemic masculinism is presented in this article as a deeply discursive phenomenon that permeates every aspect of public space. The examples outlined in the article refer to Russia, Eastern European countries as well as to the countries of the Central Asian region. The purpose of this territorial scope of the problem described in the article is to show how closely related the experience of colonial dependence was within Russian and Soviet imperialism.

Struggle for Influence in the Caspian and Central Asian Regions at the Present Stage: Transport Corridors

Struggle for Influence in the Caspian and Central Asian Regions at the Present Stage: Transport Corridors

Risks of Institutionalization of the Central Asia-China Format for Solidarity and Political Trust in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization

The article considers the risks of institutionalizing the format of the Central Asia-China dialogue («C+C5») for solidarity and mutual political trust within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). According to the documents, institutionalization is aimed at transforming the «C+C5» format into a full-fledged international intergovernmental organization with functions that duplicate the existing ones within the SCO. In the current official documents, Russia declares the importance of SCO development and assigns it a special role in the implementation of the «Turn to the East» Policy, the development of the «Greater Eurasian Partnership », and the deployment of the project of «the North-South International Transport Corridor». In this regard, further institutionalization of the «C+C5» format may create restrictions for the realization of these Russian plans and even for the protection of interests in the Central Asian region (CAR). This circumstance, coupled with the active attempts of the West and the United States to force a number of CAR countries to refuse Russia’s assistance in circumventing the sanctions regime is unlikely to be understood in Moscow. This means that it is necessary to think about the ways to overcome the likely limitations by deepening the dialogue with China on the issues of further development of the SCO and increasing its effectiveness. The plans to institutionalize the «C+C5» format may also cause increased opposition from other major global «players» such as the United States, India, the EU and Japan, which have been actively involved in Central Asian Affairs in recent years, developing formats for dialogue between «1 + C5» (CAR countries).

An unusual lowest elevation record of snow leopard (Panthera uncia) in Nepal.

The snow leopard, Panthera uncia, is a flagship species of the mountainous region in South and Central Asia. In Nepal Himalayas, the species is distributed from 3000 to 6000 m. The present finding of a snow leopard on 23 January 2024 at an elevation of 146 m. in Charghare, Urlabari of Morang District was an unusual record. This is the first recorded case of a snow leopard at such a lower elevation. Fortunately, the leopard was rescued promptly and subsequently transferred to the Central Zoo, located in Jawalakhel, Lalitpur for further treatment. Following its rescue, two snow leopard scats were collected within a week from the enclosure. These scats were then analyzed using fecal analysis techniques to identify the prey hair remains in the scats. The analysis revealed that the leopard had consumed naur (Pseudoys nayaur) and unidentified rodent species, as evidence by the hair samples present in the scats. Additionally, several claws, likely from small mammals were also recorded which remain unidentified. This finding strongly suggests that the snow leopard had descended from its usual higher elevations. It is plausible that the leopard may have lost its way and ended up in densely populated human settlements. This has opened a new avenue for research in this area. There is now a pressing need for joint collaborative research to assess the corridors and connectivity crucial for the survival of these magnificent species.

CHİNESE ZİTHER SE İN ANCİENT AND TRADİTİONAL MUSİCAL AND İNSTRUMENTAL CULTURES OF TURKİC, MONGOLİAN AND TUNGUSKA-MANCHU ETHNİC GROUPS

The relevance of this study is conditioned by the dynamic development of the guzheng zither of medieval and folk instruments of Inner Mongolia, Manchuria (North and North-East China), Mongolia, the Far East and Southern Siberia (Russian Federation), the original prototype of which is one of the oldest string plucked instruments in China – the se zither (瑟). The purpose of the study was to investigate the design features and tuning methods of se zither (瑟). A system of scientific research methods was used, namely organological analysis, comparison, deduction, and abstraction. As a result of the study, it was found that the se zither (瑟) differs from the classical Chinese zither qín (琴). Given the study of historical and archaeological sources of the 7th – 2nd centuries BCE, the oldest area of distribution of the xie zither was found within the ancient kingdom of Chu (6th – early 2nd century BCE), whose population was ethnically different from the Huaxia Chinese, and its modification, the zheng zither (箏), during the Qin dynasty (771 – 221 BCE). In addition, the ways of its infiltration into the medieval instrumentation of the ancient peoples of these regions of Central and South-East Asia were determined. The shape, design features, and the method of tuning with movable stands have established the genetic connection of this type of zither with ancient and traditional instruments of Turkic and Mongolian ethnic groups and its infiltration into the medieval court instruments of the Tunguska-Manchu.

Lessons Learned from the Experiences of Domestic Violence Service Providers in Times of Crisis: Insights from a Central Asian Country.

Domestic violence is a widespread problem in both stable and crisis contexts. During crisis-driven periods, such as environmental, economic, political, and health emergencies, existing gender inequalities are exacerbated, and the risks of violence against women (VAW) are amplified. This qualitative study explores the experiences of professionals working in VAW organisations in a Central Asian country during the COVID-19 pandemic. By interviewing 45 professionals from social care organisations in Kazakhstan, this study aims to understand the impact of COVID-19 on the ability of VAW organisations to assist victims of domestic violence and comprehend the adjustments they made to support victims. The findings shed light on the challenges faced by VAW organisations, including reduced capacity, increased service demand, the shift to remote services, and funding cuts. The study highlights the critical role of these organisations in crises and urges the consideration of lessons learned to prevent VAW in emergency and non-emergency situations. In the Central Asian region, where domestic violence is persistent, this research offers valuable insights for interventions during and after crises. The study offers effective strategies for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 5.2, which aims to eliminate violence against women, and SDG 3.8, ensuring access to healthcare, psychological support, and safe environments.

Analysis of the strategies of China and the United States in Central Asia: a look at the "C5+1" mechanism

The subject of the study is a comparison of the policy of China and the United States in the Central Asian region within the framework of the "C5+1" model. Both the United States and China, being the major powers of the modern world, seek to protect their interests in this region. In addition to existing bilateral and multilateral dialogue platforms, the United States and China have established a C5+1 dialogue mechanism with Central Asia. This mechanism has developed differently in both countries, each of which has created its own unique model and achieved a number of diplomatic results. The methodological basis of this research consists in an integrated historical and sociological approach. The authors used a historical approach to analyze the main factual information covered in the article as a whole. The innovation of this article is to scrutinize and compare the development of the “C5+1” model in China and the United States. The conclusion is that each US government has its own strategic priorities and diplomatic plans, the US “C5+1” mechanism has developed unevenly. Compared with the US mechanism, China's mechanism is more complete and at the same time has a higher level. Both China and the United States have developed their strategies in Central Asia according to their own interests, and that the main goal of the United States' current Central Asian strategy is to create a counterweight to Russia and China. For China, preserving sovereignty and stability as well as economic development are its primary interests.

A hierarchical Bayesian regression framework to analyze climate data from Central Asia region

A hierarchical Bayesian regression framework to analyze climate data from Central Asia region

Genetic dissection and genomic prediction of drought indices in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes.

Drought constitutes the main obstacle to agricultural productivity in the Central and West Asia and North Africa (CWANA) region, notably leading to substantial reductions in wheat yields due to terminal water stress. The adoption of drought-resistant wheat varieties appears to be a vital strategy to maintain wheat production in the face of climatic challenges. In this context, a study was conducted utilizing a set of 198 elite bread wheat genotypes developed at the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA). This set of elite genotypes was evaluated at the Sidi Al-Aidi station in Morocco over two years (2021-2022), under rain-fed and irrigated conditions. Phenotypic assessments for grain yield and drought indices were performed, alongside genotyping the population using 15k SNP markers. These preparatory steps facilitated a genome-wide association study (GWAS) and genomic prediction, leveraging the Mixed Linear Model (MLM) to pinpoint marker-trait associations (MTAs) and candidate genes pertinent to grain yield and drought indices. The results manifested substantial variations in both grain yield and drought indices among the genotypes tested. Grain yield performance ranged from 0.34 to 2.57 t/ha under rain-fed conditions and 1.12 to 4.57 t/ha under irrigated scenarios. The comprehensive analysis identified 39 significant MTAs (p < 0.001) and 14 putative genes associated with drought indices and grain yield. Noteworthy is the marker “wsnp_Ex_c12127_19394952” on chromosome 5B, which displayed a significant correlation with grain yield in rain-fed environments. Furthermore, the most prominent marker linked to tolerance index (TOL) was “BobWhite_c42349_99”, situated on chromosome 5A and associated with the TraesCS5A02G498000 gene. This gene plays a critical role, encoding for catalase protein crucial for response to hydrogen peroxide. These markers could be used for marker-assisted selection in wheat breeding programs targeting drought tolerance.

Genetic Structure and Phylogeographic Divergence of Thymallus brevicephalus in the Ob‐Irtysh River Headwaters

ABSTRACTClarifying the genetic structure and population history of a species can reveal the impacts of historical climate and geological changes, providing critical insights for developing effective conservation strategies for ecologically significant fish. The Markakol grayling (Thymallus brevicephalus), an endangered species found in the Altai‐Sayan Mountain region of Central Asia, serves as an ideal model for studying these factors. In this study, populations of a grayling (Thymallus) species discovered in the upper Irtysh River headwaters in Xinjiang, China, were analyzed to assess genetic diversity and population structure. Mitochondrial DNA sequences (cytochrome b and control region), along with 10 microsatellite markers, were used to examine genetic variation. Phylogenetic and genetic distance analyses confirmed the species, long misidentified as Arctic grayling (T. arcticus), as T. brevicephalus. This species can be divided into two distinct geographic groups: eastern and western, with the Crane River acting as the boundary. The divergence between these groups likely corresponds to refugia formed during the Pleistocene glaciation of the Altai Mountains, approximately 0.48 MA (million years ago) (range: 0.30 to 0.71 Ma). High haplotype diversity (Hd &gt; 0.5) and low nucleotide diversity (π &lt; 0.005) suggest that, despite the species' genetic richness, T. brevicephalus remains vulnerable to genetic drift, which could threaten its long‐term survival. This vulnerability may stem from inbreeding within small refugial populations during the glacial period, followed by gradual population expansion. Our study offers novel insights into grayling populations, with results that have direct implications for management by serving as a tool for the identification of conservation units.

On the Relationship between the Drying out of the Aral Sea and the Salinization of Irrigated Lands

In this article, it is emphasized that the drying of the Aral Sea is the main reason for geoecological problems such as salinization and desertification in the Central Asian region, especially in Uzbekistan. Suggestions and recommendations are given to reduce the negative consequences of these problems.

INFLUENCE OF THE ISLAMIC FACTOR ON TRANSFORMATION PROCESSES OF THE SOCIO-POLITICAL SYSTEM IN KAZAKHSTAN AND CENTRAL ASIA

The article examines theoretical and conceptual approaches to the study of the influence of Islam and the Islamic factor in the discourse of transformational socio-political processes in Kazakhstan and the Central Asian region. Understanding and interpreting current paradigms and trends in the development of Islam and related sociocultural, socio-political processes facilitates the orientation of our country and society in the changing realities of the world order. The development of possible mechanisms for regulating modernization processes in our country in the field of state-confessional policy has great academic and practical significance for the domestic scientific community. The article also examines differences in the interpretation of Islam among different communities in the region, as well as the impact of global trends on religious practices and political activism. Overall, the article aims to highlight the complex dynamics between Islam and socio-political life in Kazakhstan and Central Asia, focusing on the key transformational processes and challenges facing regional societies.

IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON MIGRATION PROCESSES IN CENTRAL ASIA

The article discusses the problems of climate change, water scarcity, desertification and how these problems affect migration processes in Kazakhstan and the Central Asian region. The main objective of the study is to analyze the conceptual problems of climate migration in Central Asia, as well as to identify their key aspects and the possibility of mitigating the effects of global warming. The main objectives of the study include analyzing scientific research, legislative acts and international studies related to new aspects of migration, reviewing environmental factors of migration processes, studying the relationship between climate change and migration. The study used methods of qualitative analysis of expert opinions and methods of substantive analysis of scientific publications. The use of social forecasting methods made it possible to identify the scientific novelty that global warming is an important factor in migration processes. The results of the study allow for a better understanding of the challenges under consideration, which have a global context. But given their degree of influence in Central Asia in general and Kazakhstan in particular, global warming may have a more negative effect. The interrelation of these challenges on migration processes, security and development of Kazakhstan and Central Asian countries is considered. In addition, possible approaches to reduce the effect of global warming are analyzed, as well as the need to increase research in this direction.

TRANSPORT SYSTEMS AS ESSENTIAL PART OF GOVERNMENT POLICY

The paper discusses the significance of transport systems as a crucial compone nt of public policy in the majority of countries worldwide. Transport policy aims to achieve various objectives, including promoting economic growth, enhancing accessibility, improving safety, reducing environmental impacts, and promoting social equity. A significant aspect is the substantial funding required to construct and maintain transportation infrastructure, includin g roadways, railway tracks, airports, harbors, and publictransportation systems.Special emphasis is placed on international transport corridors such as the Trans-Caspia n International Transportation Route, which complements the Chinese Belt and Road initiative and presents new opportunities for trade between China and European nations. The paper emphasize s the importance of collaboration between different levels of government and internationa l stakeholders to address cross-border transportation challenges and harmonize regulations. The authors also discuss the role of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in the development of regional transportation infrastructure and logistics. They highlight key issues such as outdate d infrastructure, high transportation costs, low efficiency, and the need for increased transit capacity. Additionally, they discuss other international initiatives, such as the Eurasian Economic Union and Central Asian Regional Economic Cooperation that aim to improve regional connectivity and facilitate trade.In conclusion, they emphasize the importance of strategic planning and investment in transportation systems to promote sustainable economic growth and enhance transportation links between Central Asian countries and other regions of the world.

Assessing the Impact of New Silk Road Initiatives on Kazakhstan's Business Environment

This study conducts a comprehensive evaluation of four major regional economic integration initiatives along the New Silk Road in Eurasia: The Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), the Silk Road Economic Belt (SREB), the New Silk Road (NSR), and the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) program. By employing an expert-based analysis method, the research assesses the initiatives from the perspective of the Kazakhstani business environment, identifying critical criteria for successful economic integration, including intra-union trade, market expansion, supply chain optimization, regulatory harmonization, and access to financing. Drawing parallels with the historical Silk Road's focus on trade and economic prosperity, this research employs an expert-based analysis method to assess these modern initiatives from the perspective of the Kazakhstani business environment. Through structured expert panel assessments and statistical analysis, the study determines which initiatives offer the most tangible benefits to businesses in Kazakhstan and the broader region. The findings indicate that the SREB initiative scored highest overall, particularly in fostering regional economic development and business growth, with a total score of 197, followed by the EAEU with 181. The findings reveal that the SREB initiative scored highest overall, followed by the EAEU, indicating their strong potential for fostering regional economic development and business growth. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and businesses navigating the complex landscape of Eurasian economic integration. It offers a framework for evaluating the effectiveness of new Silk Road initiatives in promoting regional prosperity and cooperation, with particular relevance to Kazakhstan's position in Central Asia.

Examination of Turkish Culture and Customs before Islam: Outcomes and Implications

This article first investigates the activities, life, and significant role of Turkish peoples in the history of Central Asia and the Middle East before the arrival of Islam. Initially, Turks were introduced as one of the major influential groups in the Central Asian region, living a nomadic and pastoral lifestyle in the plain areas. The article secondly, explores various pre-Islamic religious beliefs and practices of the Turks, including Tengri or Tengrism (worship of natural forces), Buddhism, Manichaeism, Shamanism, and Zoroastrianism. In addition, the paper describes the Turks' strategic location with the key trade routes, Turkish customs such as the celebration of Nowruz, the nomadic lifestyle, and the wide range of handicrafts including metalwork, pottery, and weaving. The paper also slightly covers the different ethnic and historical origins of Turkish people, such as the Oghuz, Seljuks, Kipchaks, and Ottomans. Eventually, the article explains the tribal social structure of the Turks, the role of khans and traditional leaders in their societies, and the dominant feudal system before Islam.

Socio-political factors in the emergence of border armed conflicts in Central Asia

This article examines the socio-political causes of border disputes and armed conflicts between states in Central Asia. Socio-political causes of border disputes in Central Asia encompass ethnic tensions, resource allocation conflicts, geopolitical influences, weak governance, cross-border community ties, and strategic national security interests. The article assesses the importance of Central Asia in the world political system and describes interactions between the states of the Central Asian region in the context of the settlement of territorial disputes at the present stage.

A hierarchical Bayesian regression framework to analyze climate data from Central Asia region

A hierarchical Bayesian regression framework to analyze climate data from Central Asia region

Интересы Саудовской Аравии в Центральной Азии в контексте внутренних и внешних реалий

The article analyzes the interests of Saudi Arabia in the Central Asian region taking into account the internal modernization processes in the Kingdom and in the context of global geopolitical turbulence. It is proved that at the present stage Saudi Arabia makes a lot of efforts to gain a foothold in Central Asia as an influential player using its religious authority along with financial and economic instruments of influence. The emphasis is placed on the fact that with the coming to power of the young reformer King Mohammed bin Salman Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy in the Central Asian direction changed from religious identity to a pragmatic approach to interaction with the countries of the region. In this context, the Kingdom positions itself as an attractive economic and investment partner. It is emphasized that the main ideological competitor of Saudi Arabia in Central Asia is Iran whose regional activity alarms the Saudis and encourages the Kingdom’s leadership to develop measures to contain it. It is concluded that Saudi Arabia actively joined the geopolitical processes in Central Asia symbolizing a new stage of the “Big Game” and confidently tries to integrate into regional energy and transport and communication projects through its generous investment injections.

TURKEY AS A CONDUCTOR OF NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL INTERESTS IN CENTRAL ASIA

The study examines the historical features of Turkey’s existence within the framework of the manifestation of national and international interests in the Central Asian region. The relevance is due to the state’s attention to cooperation with other neighboring territories, within the framework of ensuring cultural, historical, religious, and political unity. As a result of the study, aspects of the significance of the models of contact between the policies and interests of Turkey and the Central Asian states were reflected. The main guidelines for ensuring the stability of the region and the mutual interest of all countries in confronting the challenges of our time are highlighted. The author’s conclusions concerning the maintenance and further regionalization of political, international, and international relations of all players in this territory are presented.