CAPS Unlock Podcast

In this episode of the CAPS Unlock podcast, Peter Leonard and Tlegen Kuandykov explore the growing air pollution crisis in Central Asia, focusing on cities like Bishkek and Almaty, which face severe air quality challenges due to coal heating, unplanned urban development, and sandstorms. The conversation highlights governmental responses such as gasification projects, public transport reforms, and the need for environmental education.The episode then pivots to Turkey’s expanding influence in Central Asia. Peter and Tlegen are joined by Samuel Doveri Vesterbye, managing director of the European Neighbourhood Council, to discuss Turkey’s strategies, including its role within the Organization of Turkic States and its increasing regional clout.Finally, the episode delves into the implications of Syria’s shifting dynamics for Central Asia, exploring concerns about returning fighters and regional security.We welcome your feedback, questions, and comments at pleonard@capsunlock.org -- your input could shape future episodes! Get full access to Havli - A Central Asia Substack at havli.substack.com/subscribe

This week on the CAPS Unlock Podcast, co-hosts Peter Leonard and Tlegen Kuandykov delve into two major stories shaping Central Asia. First, they share a wide-ranging interview with Ambassador Terhi Hakala, the outgoing EU Special Representative for Central Asia. Ambassador Hakala reflects on the evolution of the EU’s 2019 Central Asia strategy, the region’s connectivity priorities, and initiatives targeting youth, climate resilience, and green development.Later, the conversation shifts to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s high-profile visit to Kazakhstan. Peter and Tlegen explore the diplomatic spectacle in Astana, from fighter jet displays to the CSTO summit. They unpack the agreements signed during Putin's meeting with President Tokayev, the unresolved nuclear energy debate, and Kazakhstan's nuanced position within Russia's orbit.Is Kazakhstan asserting strategic autonomy? What’s the future of regional collaboration in a shifting global order? Tune in to hear what they have to say.For feedback and suggests, please send emails to pleonard@capsunlock.orgPost-podcast reading:* The EU's New Central Asia Strategy (2019). Find here. * Analysis from the Center for European Policy Studies, published back in 2019, criticising the EU's level of investment in Central Asia compared to China’s.* Strategic Autonomy for Central Asia: Authored by Nargis Kassenova, this report discusses how Central Asian countries can pursue strategic autonomy with insights from the EU. Get full access to Havli - A Central Asia Substack at havli.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to the debut episode of the CAPS Unlock podcast, hosted by Peter Leonard, Communications Coordinator at CAPS Unlock. In this introductory episode, Peter is joined by executive sirector Aida Aidarkulova and program coordinator Tlegen Kuandykov to explore the mission of CAPS Unlock and the think tank landscape in Central Asia.We discuss the organization's focus on critical areas such as international relations, social and economic justice, digital democracy, and climate change. Learn about CAPS Unlock’s recent initiatives, including a regional trade conference in Tashkent, and the challenges regional think tanks face, from funding constraints to academic freedom. We also highlight the importance of youth engagement, partnerships, and creativity in sustaining research.Contact Us:Feedback or suggestions? Reach out at pleonard@capsunlock.org. Get full access to Havli - A Central Asia Substack at havli.substack.com/subscribe