Pannier and Hillard’s Spotlight on Central Asia: New Episode Available Sunday
As Managing Editor of The Times of Central Asia, I’m delighted that, in partnership with the Oxus Society for Central Asian Affairs, from October 19, we are the home of the Spotlight on Central Asia podcast. Chaired by seasoned broadcasters Bruce Pannier of RFE/RL’s long-running Majlis podcast and Michael Hillard of The Red Line, each fortnightly instalment will take you on a deep dive into the latest news, developments, security issues, and social trends across an increasingly pivotal region. The new episode, available this Sunday, will be dedicated to 16 Days Against Gender-Based Violence, with guests Svetlana Dzardanova, a gender and human rights researcher for Freedom for Eurasia, based in Bishkek, and Janette Akhilgova, Equality Now’s Eurasia consultant.
Kyrgyzstan’s Creative Industries Park: Inside the Country’s Latest Artistic “Miracle”
Kyrgyz cinema in the 1960s to 1970s was sometimes referred to as the ‘Kyrgyz Miracle’, for the number of great pieces that were made during this time. This is still symbolic today, as the country is now in another ‘miracle’ era for the creative industries, which is setting an example not just for the Central Asia region, but globally. In 2023 Daniyar Amanaliev, Co-Founder of an art studio named ololo and Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Creative Industries Park, told Deutsche Welle: “We have a very small country. When you start a business here, it's very difficult to start making money because the market is so small. And our innovators are people who are involved in creative businesses. Almost all of these companies have intangible products that cannot be stopped at customs or sealed in a warehouse. Everything is in people's heads, on computers, in the cloud, and this is exactly the kind of business model that can thrive in the Kyrgyz Republic”. This story starts with Ololo, a small art studio in Bishkek founded in 2016 by Daniar Amanaliev, Ainura Amanalieva, Atai Sadybakasov, and Victoria Yurtaeva. The initial idea was to change the lifestyle of Kyrgyz citizens, enriching their lives with different forms of art, and let them pursue the dreams of their youth. The studio provided a wide range of art classes with no age restrictions. The company soon switched its business model to operating creative hubs. Yurtaeva soon left the project. Fast forward nine years and in 2025 Ololo is the largest chain of creative hubs in Central Asia, with nine locations in Kyrgyzstan and an upcoming launch of their tenth location in Kazakhstan. In October 2021 Ololo was crucial to the launch of the Association of Creative Industries of the Kyrgyz Republic, together with eight other companies from the creative industries. Starting as a modest group, the association is now among the most active associations in the country, with over 50 member companies representing over 20 creative industries. In April 2022 the country’s President Sadyr Japarov signed an Order on the development of the creative industries. He even visited the very first Create4 creative industries festival later that year. Kyrgyzstan’s Creative Industries Park (CIP) came into being in summer 2022. Almost a year later, the relevant amendments to the national Tax Code were approved. In June 2023 a government order regulating the operations of the Creative Industries Park was adopted. And, finally, the register of industries exempt from taxes under the Creative Industries Park were defined in December of 2023.
The World’s First
Now the Creative Industries Park is the very first model globally for boosting creative industries in this way, which is a viable case for other countries to follow. Amanaliev is the only member from Central Asia in the Global Creative Economy Council, part of the UK’s Creative Industries Policy and Evidence Centre. His counterparts from different parts of the world are now carefully watching how this new model unfolds. It has been quite successful so far, and is only gaining momentum. CIP provides a special tax regime for companies operating in the creative industries, offering significantly reduced tax rates. At the moment 72 creative sectors, from cinema and music to fashion and graphic arts, enjoy the benefits of the park. The Park has over 130 members already, which made over KGS 500 million (~$6 million) in revenue in Q3 2025, a more than ten-fold growth since Q3 2024. A similar special tax regime for IT outsourcing, the High Technology Park, saw a 500x growth in the revenue of its residents in its first decade from its launch in 2013 to 2023. CIP has all the potential to grow even further. In 2025 CIP launched its own Creative Industries Support Fund, which runs its grant program and started financially supporting promising initiatives, projects, and startups in the creative industries. Last month CIP held its very first contest for companies operating in the creative industries, where participants could win equity-free cash prizes to further develop their companies. Speaking about the potential for his project, Amanaliev told The Times of Central Asia: “A Creative Industries Park is a good idea for any country in the Global South. I’m sure, in the nearest 5-10 years we will witness the adaptation of this idea in many places. It will become a great contribution of the Kyrgyz Republic to the development of the creative economy in the world!”
“Winter Begins in Karakol”: Kyrgyzstan Launches Ski Season with Cultural Events
The winter tourist season has officially opened in Karakol, Kyrgyzstan, long considered one of Central Asia’s top destinations for active winter tourism. The city is traditionally the first in the country to open its ski slopes, and this year’s launch was not merely technical, but a full-scale event aimed at boosting both domestic and international tourism.
A festive program was held at the ski base, featuring music and dance performances, as well as the launch of the “Jaryk Fest” festival. Local artisans hosted master classes in felt-making, showcasing clothing and souvenir production. This crafts section played an important role in positioning the region as a cultural as well as an adventure destination.
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“Jaryk Fest is a celebration of light, snow, and vivid emotions. It’s timed to coincide with the opening of the winter season across Kyrgyzstan. We even have a slogan: ‘Winter begins in Karakol,’” said Ulukbek Almakebek, manager of the Karakol ski resort, in an interview with The Times of Central Asia.
According to the organizers, the resort continues to draw tourists from Russia and Kazakhstan, but recent years have seen a notable rise in visitors from Europe and Southeast Asia, a trend that Kyrgyzstan is actively encouraging by expanding its winter tourism offerings.
Skiers highlight Karakol’s unique terrain as one of its main attractions. Many of the trails pass through dense coniferous forests, creating picturesque and varied descents not found at other regional resorts.
Erdenet Kasymov, director of the Kyrgyzstan Tourism Department, noted that winter tourism is rapidly diversifying. In addition to traditional skiing and hot springs, European tourists are increasingly opting for mountain hiking and horseback riding.
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“Tourists from South Korea and India are particularly drawn to snowshoeing in deep snow. It’s a relatively new form of recreation, but one that’s quickly gaining popularity,” Kasymov said.
One emerging trend is winter yachting on Issyk-Kul Lake. Because the lake does not freeze in winter, it offers an extended season and opportunities for new types of recreation. Two modern yachts have already been acquired for the region, and work is ongoing to restore older vessels and build docks and piers.
This approach aligns with a vision outlined by President Sadyr Japarov, a native of the Issyk-Kul region, who has previously called for moving beyond the traditional separation of “winter” and “summer” tourism. According to Japarov, Kyrgyzstan is building a model of year-round tourism designed to take advantage of the country’s diverse natural offerings.
China’s Expanding Electric Bus Footprint in Central Asia
In recent years, there has been a visible increase in electric vehicle exports from China to Central Asia. Although much public attention goes to electric cars, the spread of Chinese electric buses across the region is equally meaningful. Kyrgyzstan provides a clear example of this trend, where manufacturers such as Yutong and Anhui Ankai Automobile have become important actors in the country’s effort to modernize its public transport system. Through the Asian Development Bank-funded Urban Transport Electrification Project, Kyrgyzstan purchased 120 battery electric buses from Anhui Ankai Automobile. A complementary initiative by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development under its Green City program is supporting the delivery of 95 new 12-meter Yutong buses. The first batch of 20 Yutong vehicles reached the country in November 2025, marking a practical step forward in Kyrgyzstan’s shift toward cleaner transportation. Mutual Benefits and Strategic Alignment Cooperation in the electric bus sector offers advantages for China and Kyrgyzstan in different but interconnected ways. For Chinese companies, emerging markets such as Kyrgyzstan present new commercial openings at a time when access to some advanced markets faces stricter regulatory conditions. Exporting electric buses to Central Asia allows Chinese manufacturers to diversify revenue streams while strengthening their global presence. The growing visibility of Chinese green technologies also fits within the broader vision of the Green Silk Road, which aims to reinforce an image of China as a partner in sustainable development. China’s involvement in Kyrgyzstan’s electric mobility market broadens the scope of bilateral engagement. Previous cooperation often focused on large infrastructure and energy projects. The addition of electric mobility creates a more diversified framework that touches directly on urban life and community-level benefits. Opportunities for Kyrgyzstan’s Green Transition Kyrgyzstan stands to gain significantly from the expansion of electric public transport, especially with the support of multilateral development banks. Access to affordable and modern electric buses enables cities to renew outdated fleets and reduce their reliance on conventional diesel-powered vehicles. Environmental and public health benefits are among the most important outcomes. The transportation sector accounts for an estimated 28% of Kyrgyzstan’s national greenhouse gas emissions, making a transition to cleaner mobility essential for meeting sustainability goals. Electric buses can reduce air pollution in densely populated areas and improve overall urban health. Kyrgyzstan’s electricity mix relies heavily on domestically generated renewable energy, particularly hydropower. This makes the shift to electric mobility even more beneficial. When electric buses are powered by renewable sources, the overall carbon footprint of the fleet is significantly lower. Reduced dependence on imported fossil fuels further strengthens national energy security. A Gradual but Meaningful Transformation The growing presence of Chinese electric buses in Kyrgyzstan reflects a broader regional transformation. Public transport electrification is becoming an important element of Central Asia’s green development path. While challenges remain in finance, maintenance, and charging infrastructure, the overall direction is clear. Partnerships that bring together Chinese manufacturers, multilateral development institutions, and Central Asian governments are creating new opportunities for sustainable mobility. For Kyrgyzstan, these developments support cleaner cities and healthier communities. For China, they help build constructive economic and technological ties in the region. Electric buses, therefore, represent more than a technological product. They symbolize how environmental goals, market developments, and international cooperation are gradually reshaping the landscape of Central Asia.
Kyrgyzstan UN Security Council Bid Gains Backing from Central Asian Neighbors
In a show of regional unity, the presidents of all of the Central Asian countries have endorsed Kyrgyzstan’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027–2028 term. The joint appeal was announced on December 4 at a UN press briefing in New York by Uzbekistan’s Permanent Representative, Ulugbek Lapasov, who called on UN member states to support the bid. According to Lapasov, the endorsement reflects the region’s intent to strengthen its voice in international peace and security efforts. Kyrgyzstan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Aida Kasymalieva, welcomed the unified support from neighboring states. Kasymalieva said the move reflects “a shared commitment to peace, dialogue, and a constructive multilateral approach,” and emphasized that her country, if elected, would serve as “a responsible and principled” Council member that amplifies the voices of smaller and developing nations.
A Regional Campaign with Global Aspirations
Kyrgyzstan first announced its intention to seek a Security Council seat in 2017. The campaign gathered momentum in 2024, when President Sadyr Japarov told the UN General Assembly that it was time to correct the “historical injustice” of dozens of UN member states - Kyrgyzstan among them - never having served on the Council. Japarov also called for broader representation, especially for African countries, and pledged that Kyrgyzstan would work to make the Council more effective, transparent, and inclusive. In April 2025, Kyrgyzstan officially launched its campaign with a reception at UN Headquarters in New York. Foreign Minister Jeenbek Kulubaev outlined Bishkek’s core priorities: conflict prevention, sustainable development for landlocked and mountainous nations, nuclear disarmament, and support for UN reform. The event drew diplomats from over 150 UN member states. The bid has become a central part of Bishkek’s foreign policy agenda, with senior officials describing it as a long-term investment in the country’s diplomatic standing. The vote for the 2027–2028 non-permanent seats will take place during the UN General Assembly session in June 2026, as scheduled under UN election procedures. Local media have reported that Kyrgyzstan’s main competitor for the Asia-Pacific seat is the Philippines, which has also announced its candidacy. This would not be the first time a Central Asian state has held a seat on the Council. Kazakhstan was elected for the 2017–2018 term, becoming the first country from the region to do so. Its campaign emphasized nuclear disarmament, regional security, and representing the interests of landlocked developing countries. Kyrgyzstan has framed its candidacy similarly, not just as a national endeavor, but as a platform for regional engagement on a global stage.Domestic Challenges, Global Aspirations
While Kyrgyzstan pushes for a seat at the UN’s most powerful decision-making body, concerns persist over the country’s democratic trajectory. Once considered the most open society in Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan has seen a decline in civil liberties in recent years, with growing restrictions on independent media, increased pressure on NGOs, and a pattern of centralized political control under President Japarov. In 2021, Kyrgyzstan adopted a new constitution that expanded presidential powers and weakened checks and balances. More recently, parliament passed a “foreign agents” law - widely criticized by civil society – which raised fears of a crackdown on nonprofit groups with international ties. The government argues that the reforms aim to protect national values and promote stability. As the UN General Assembly vote nears, Kyrgyzstan’s diplomacy will be tested not just on international policy, but on how its domestic record aligns with the principles it pledges to uphold abroad. Whether the country’s bid succeeds will depend on both the strength of regional backing and the credibility of its global commitments.
Kyrgyzstan and Britain Sign Landmark Agreement on Critical Minerals Cooperation
Kyrgyzstan and the United Kingdom have taken a significant step toward strengthening their partnership in the global critical minerals market, signing a landmark memorandum of understanding (MoU) in London. The agreement was formalized by Stephen Doughty, UK Minister of State for Europe, North America and UK Overseas Territories, and Meder Mashiev, Kyrgyz Minister of Natural Resources, Ecology and Technical Supervision. The document outlines cooperation in geological exploration, the implementation of high environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards, development of business ties, and the exchange of expertise. For Bishkek, the MoU establishes a new platform for deeper economic engagement with the UK, one of the world’s leading financial and technological hubs, while facilitating foreign investment and joint projects in the critical minerals sector. Mashiev arrived in London as part of the Kyrgyz government delegation attending London Mining Week, which runs from December 1 to 6. Speaking at the MINEX Eurasia conference on December 1, he presented the country’s long-term strategy for developing its critical minerals sector. According to him, Kyrgyzstan’s deposits of antimony, beryllium, molybdenum, bismuth, zinc, silver, and other critical minerals represent significant commercial and strategic value for global industries, particularly in energy, electronics, and advanced manufacturing. State-owned companies, including Kyrgyzgeology, are leading exploration and development efforts, supported by government incentives and an open-door policy toward international collaboration. Strategic sites are being actively promoted for joint ventures and direct foreign investment. Mashiev emphasized that Kyrgyzstan’s strategy places a strong focus on high ESG standards, aiming to ensure environmentally responsible development, social transparency, and meaningful benefits for local communities. The government’s objective is to position the country as a competitive and responsible supplier of critical minerals essential to global green transition technologies. Kyrgyzstan’s ambitions are backed by substantial geological potential. Speaking at the International Forum on Critical Minerals 2025 in Seoul in May, Deputy Minister Marat Jusupbekov noted that the country is home to 11 deposits of rare earth elements, positioning it as an increasingly attractive destination for global investors. One of Kyrgyzstan's most valuable assets is the Kutessay II deposit, which contains more than 63,300 tons of rare earth metals, along with molybdenum, silver, bismuth, lead, and zinc. The government is promoting joint development of this deposit in tandem with the nearby Kalesai beryllium site, which holds an estimated 11,700 tons of beryllium. Both sites are licensed to Kyrgyzgeology, which is actively seeking foreign investment partners. Jusupbekov also highlighted the potential of the Kyzyl-Ompol uranium-thorium group, including the Tash-Bulak area, where titanium-magnetite reserves are estimated at 5.5 million tons. This project is licensed to Kyrgyzaltyn, the country’s largest gold mining enterprise. With global demand for critical minerals rising due to the renewable energy transition and growth in advanced manufacturing, Kyrgyzstan’s latest agreements and strategic initiatives aim to position the country as an emerging player in this fast-evolving, high-value market.
The Future of Kyrgyz Tech – Scaling Global Companies, Attracting Foreign Capital
In the second installment of our exclusive two-part interview, The Times of Central Asia continues its deep dive into Kyrgyzstan’s evolving tech landscape with Elena Nechaeva, Head of Communications at the High Technology Park of the Kyrgyz Republic (HTP).
Last week, we explored the startups and entrepreneurs who are currently building and scaling global businesses.
If you missed it, you can read the first part of the interview here.
This week, we focus on policy reform, cross-border cooperation, investor outreach, and the path ahead for Kyrgyz entrepreneurs in an increasingly globally competitive market.
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TCA: In terms of regulation and policy, what improvements or reforms would you like to see to better support innovation?
Elena Nechaeva: There are several policy improvements that could really accelerate innovation in Kyrgyzstan, and many tech leaders have been very open about them.
One of the biggest needs is a clearer national strategy for startups. Now, it’s not fully defined who exactly drives startup development and what the government’s long-term role should be. A coordinated approach with clear ownership would help the ecosystem grow much faster.
Another important area is venture legislation and a stronger legal framework. Founders and investors often mention the need for a proper venture law, elements of English common law, and better protection of intellectual property. These changes would make it far easier to attract long-term capital and for investors to feel confident working with local companies.
There’s also a lot of focus on the importance of modernizing higher education and expanding international partnerships. Strong engineering programs and links between academia and industry are essential for deep-tech development.
And finally, Kyrgyzstan needs policies that help retain and attract talent. The digital nomad visa is already showing positive results, but it can be expanded.
TCA: How does the Kyrgyz Republic's tech ecosystem compare to others in Central Asia or the wider region?
Nechaeva: If you look at the region by population size, Kyrgyzstan is much smaller - about 7 million people, compared to nearly 20 million in Kazakhstan and over 36 million in Uzbekistan. And yet, with a far smaller talent pool and fewer resources, the country already exports more than $130 million in IT services, almost entirely to global markets.
Whilst Kyrgyzstan’s tech ecosystem is smaller than some of our neighbors, it is one of the fastest-growing. What makes it different is that it is being developed from the bottom up - driven by founders, engineers, and communities rather than large state programs. That’s why the ecosystem is very agile, open, with a real-world focus on exports.
Another difference is the mindset: Kyrgyz startups grow with a “global from day one” approach. They don’t build for a domestic market - they build for the U.S., Europe, and the wider world from day one. That creates a very different culture and pushes teams to compete internationally right from the start.
So, while our ecosystem is smaller in size, it’s fast, flexible, and globally focused, and that’s exactly why it’s gaining attention in the region.
TCA: Is HTP actively working to attract foreign investors or international companies? If so, how?
Nechaeva: Yes, the HTP is highly active in attracting foreign investors and international companies. We participate in major global tech events, GITEX Dubai, Gamescom, CES, Digital Bridge, ICT Week, Web Summit, and others, where we showcase Kyrgyz companies and IT solutions, meet with investors, and build long-term partnerships.
A central part of our strategy is the KIT Forum, our flagship annual event held at the end of May each year.
Last year, we welcomed participants from over 20 countries, hosted 60-plus speakers, drew more than 3,000 attendees, and featured over 40 companies at the expo.
HTP also operates a dedicated Global Development Department, which builds relationships with foreign companies, facilitates international communication, and works to attract both investors and tech firms to Kyrgyzstan.
Our approach is clear: maintain global presence, build trust, and demonstrate that Kyrgyzstan is an emerging tech hub with fantastic talent, competitive operating costs, and an open, business-friendly environment.
TCA: Are there partnerships or joint ventures with other tech parks or innovation hubs across the EAEU, CIS, or globally?
Nechaeva: Yes, Kyrgyzstan is actively engaged in several regional and international tech initiatives.
The country participates in regional forums and exchanges, such as the Digital Startup Awards (DSA), which held its semi-finals in Kyrgyzstan and brought together innovation hubs from across Central Asia, including Uzbekistan’s IT Park, demonstrating strong regional collaboration.
The Ministry of Digital Development and Innovative Technologies signed an MoU with Central Asia Capital Investment Fund to create a new technology hub in Tokmok, combining manufacturing, high-tech infrastructure, and startup support.
Another strong example is our cooperation with the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), which co-organized the KIT Forum, now a shared platform for innovation across the Turkic world.
We also partner with organizations like Accelerate Prosperity, which operates throughout Central Asia and supports cross-border startup programs, joint pitch sessions, and investor engagement.
TCA: What is the USP for launching a tech company in Kyrgyzstan right now?
Nechaeva: Kyrgyzstan’s unique advantage lies in its speed, affordability, and global accessibility. It’s one of the few places where you can register a company in just three business days, maintain 100% foreign ownership, and operate fully remotely without a physical office.
The regulatory environment is streamlined, government-backed, and legally protected, giving founders vital certainty.
HTP’s regulatory and fiscal framework has also been tailored for export-oriented tech businesses. The generous tax incentives ensure that more capital goes toward growth rather than taxation.
Operational costs are extremely competitive; Kyrgyzstan ranks among the most affordable countries globally, allowing startups to extend their runway and reinvest in product and talent. The banking infrastructure is also robust, with 21 banks and over 1,000 service points, making it easy for international founders to operate.
The country also boasts a growing, export-driven tech workforce supported by modern tech hubs, co-working spaces, and the HTP community of over 500 companies exporting to 63 countries. While the domestic market is small, the ecosystem is globally focused from the outset.
Finally, lifestyle is a major draw. Kyrgyzstan offers pristine natural beauty, rivers, forests, alpine lakes, and world-class mountains. You can finish a work call and be hiking or skiing within 20 minutes. For many in tech, the balance between global work and active outdoor living is a major incentive - think Boulder, Colorado, but without the price tag.
TCA: What new initiatives or developments can we expect from the High Technology Park in the next year or two?
Nechaeva: In the next 12-24 months, the HTP will evolve from being primarily a virtual tax regime into a more physical, innovation-driven ecosystem. One of our most exciting developments is the creation of a new High-Tech Laboratory, a space to bring together founders, researchers, deep-tech teams, and innovators from across the country.
This initiative supports teams like ArtSkin, whose advanced work in prosthetic technology demands specialized infrastructure. The lab will enable experimentation, prototyping, and cross-disciplinary collaboration in AI, deep tech, engineering, and hardware at a level previously unavailable in Kyrgyzstan.
HTP will continue to be the region’s easiest place to launch a tech company, but soon, it will also be where breakthrough technologies are built.
TCA: How do you envision the HTP shaping Kyrgyzstan’s digital economy by 2030?
Nechaeva: By 2030, HTP aims to be a central driver for Kyrgyzstan’s digital economy. President Sadyr Japarov has already identified tech as a national priority.
Our goals include significantly increasing IT exports, scaling globally competitive product companies, and nurturing a deeper talent pool of engineers, researchers, and founders. HTP will be more than a launchpad; it will be the innovation core for deep-tech, AI, and engineering.
In 2024, HTP resident revenue reached $131 million, a more than sixfold growth since 2018. Under conservative projections, we expect revenues to hit $600-750 million by 2030, and under an accelerated strategy, to surpass $1 billion.
With a GDP of roughly $16-17 billion, this means IT already comprises around 1% of the national economy, nearly all from exports. If HTP maintains its trajectory, tech could account for 3-5% of GDP and 10-20% of exports, creating thousands of high-paying jobs in the country.
In short, if we meet our targets, IT will become one of the key pillars of the economy by 2030.
TCA: Are there emerging technologies or trends that the park is particularly focused on (e.g., blockchain, green tech, quantum computing)?
Nechaeva: AI is the leading area of focus for HTP. Teams are already working on speech tech, automation, analytics, and applied AI, with strong momentum continuing to build.
We are also increasingly focusing on blockchain and Web3. Kyrgyzstan recently hosted a major Web3 conference, and government interest in developing this sector is growing. HTP plans to support blockchain ventures through regulation, education, and global partnerships.
TCA: Finally, Elena, what message would you like to send to young Kyrgyz entrepreneurs or worldwide tech talent considering starting a technology business in Kyrgyzstan?
Nechaeva: In tech, the winners are those who spot opportunities before they go mainstream. They notice momentum in places others overlook.
Kyrgyzstan is one of those places: a small country with no coastline, no oil, and no vast population, but with something far more valuable: great Wi-Fi, a fantastic talent pool, low costs, a builder’s mindset, and a community that knows how to grow from the ground up; and did I mention how stunningly beautiful it is?
In the coming years, I hope that Kyrgyzstan will become a story of how a small nation used technology, creativity, and global reach to outperform expectations.
And right now is the perfect time to become part of that story, before it becomes the headline. The door is open. Jump in while the momentum is just beginning.
Thank you to Elena Nechaeva and the High Technology Park for providing The Times of Central Asia with such a detailed insight into Kyrgyzstan’s digital innovation ecosystem.
If you’re a seasoned entrepreneur, international investor, or aspiring entrepreneur, then you can find out more about the High Technology Park at: https://htp.kg/
Information Sovereignty? Central Asia Tightens Control Over Its Information Space
Across the post-Soviet space, governments are adopting new measures that affect the scope of free expression. Similar trends are visible in Central Asia, the Caucasus, and parts of Eastern Europe, reflecting wider global shifts in how states manage their information environments. In Central Asia, where journalism has long faced political constraints, recent policies indicate a renewed emphasis on controlling the flow of information. From Georgia to Kazakhstan: Pushback Against Foreign Narratives Recent events in Georgia highlight these changes. The adoption of a controversial “foreign agents” law, widely described as a Russian-style or “pro-Russian” measure, reflected the ruling party’s growing hostility to foreign-funded media and NGOs, many backed by European donors, and triggered mass pro-EU protests in Tbilisi. Similar dynamics are emerging in Central Asia, where officials increasingly view foreign narratives as interference in domestic affairs. In Kazakhstan, legislative restrictions on so-called "LGBT propaganda" have sparked both domestic protests and criticism from international partners. At the same time, well-known media figure Gulnar Bazhkenova, editor-in-chief of Orda.kz, has been placed under house arrest, an episode that underscores the tightening environment for journalists. The Bazhkenova Case: A Turning Point for Kazakh Media Bazhkenova, a prominent editor known for critical coverage of Kazakhstan’s political elite and security services, came under scrutiny after Orda.kz falsely reported the arrest of Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu, an unverified claim that was quickly debunked. Although Nurtleu remained in his position immediately afterward, he was dismissed later in September, prompting speculation that the incident had political consequences. Soon after his departure, law enforcement launched an investigation into Bazhkenova. On December 1, Almaty police searched her residence and the offices of Orda.kz. Authorities stated that a 2024 article had disseminated false information regarding a law enforcement officer allegedly caught accepting a bribe, an incident that officials assert never occurred. Another article reportedly misrepresented details in a property dispute, allegedly damaging the business reputation of the involved party. The Almaty police have since opened additional investigations into past publications from Orda.kz that may contain misleading content. Media organizations have largely responded with condemnation, urging the authorities to decriminalize the dissemination of false information and instead treat such cases under civil law. However, the Union of Journalists of Kazakhstan issued a pointed statement calling on media professionals to “treat the preparation and dissemination of information responsibly. Individual cases for the dissemination of inaccurate information cast a shadow on the entire journalistic community of our country,” the organization said. An implicit acknowledgment, perhaps, that Bazhkenova’s actions may have crossed legal or ethical boundaries. Parallel Cases and Regional Patterns While suppression of the media in Tajikistan and Turkmenistan has long been widespread, Kyrgyzstan - long considered the most politically open country in Central Asia - has also moved to tighten control over its information space. In early 2024, authorities introduced a controversial “foreign representatives” law requiring NGOs and media outlets receiving international funding to register under a special status, echoing legislation seen in Russia and Georgia. Independent outlets such as Kloop, Temirov Live, and Azattyk (RFE/RL’s Kyrgyz service) have faced lawsuits, blocked websites, or forced suspension of activities under charges ranging from extremism to spreading false information. Journalists and media advocates warn that these measures, combined with new restrictions on “false” online content, represent a significant rollback of Kyrgyzstan’s traditionally pluralistic media environment and signal the government’s growing interest in asserting information sovereignty. Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan have also recently come under scrutiny for what some view as selective crackdowns tied to geopolitical alignments. This autumn, both countries detained bloggers seen as sympathetic to Russia's geopolitical narrative. In Kazakhstan, blogger Aslan Tolegenov, known online as "Northern_Kazakh", was convicted in November for inciting interethnic hatred, receiving a sentence of three years and nine months. Tolegenov was known for videos expressing pro-Russian views on the war in Ukraine and presenting himself as defending Russian speakers against what he called “Russophobia” in Kazakhstan. In Uzbekistan, blogger Aziz Khakimov, known as "Comrade_Aziz," was first fined in August for spreading false information about a university rector. A month later, prosecutors added charges including incitement of interethnic hatred, defamation, and war propaganda. The investigation was initiated after journalist Nikita Makarenko accused Khakimov of slander in a video. If convicted, Khakimov faces up to 10 years in prison. A Region Redrawing Its Media Boundaries Russian media outlets supportive of the so-called "Russian World" ideology have decried these arrests as betrayals by supposed allies. Yet, the broader trend suggests that regional governments are increasingly prioritizing what they view as information sovereignty. Whether targeting liberal media outlets, pro-Russian influencers, or independent journalists, the common thread is a concerted effort to control narratives within their borders. From Kazakhstan to Uzbekistan, these actions reflect a growing consensus among Central Asian elites: foreign narratives, whether from Russia, the West, or elsewhere, are increasingly seen not as pluralism but as threats to national unity.
Sunkar Podcast
Central Asia and the Troubled Southern Route
