CAPS Unlock Podcast

Kazakhstan oil caught in Russia-Ukraine crossfire

In this episode of the Caps Unlock podcast, we first turn our attention to the fallout from a Ukrainian drone strike on the Caspian Pipeline Consortium [https://havli.substack.com/p/pipeline-attack-plunges-kazakhstan] (CPC), a crucial oil transit route for Kazakhstan. With potential losses in the billions, the attack puts Kazakhstan in a diplomatic bind between Ukraine, Russia, and Western energy interests. Kazakhstan is playing cool for now. But why? Next, we feature an interview with Azhar Baisalova, a representative from MoveGreen, a Bishkek-based NGO advocating for better air quality. Baisalova highlights the severe health risks posed by air pollution, the lack of reliable official data, and the economic cost of pollution in the region. The conversation also covers ongoing efforts to transition away from coal, promote sustainable urban transport, and expand gasification programs. To end with, the podcast shifts to Kyrgyzstan, where authorities plan to integrate school surveillance cameras into the Interior Ministry’s monitoring system [https://24.kg/vlast/320200_videokameryi_vshkolah_kyirgyizstana_podsoedinyat_ksisteme_mvd/]. The move is framed as a child protection measure but raises concerns about privacy and government overreach. Contact Us: Feedback or suggestions? Reach out at pleonard@capsunlock.org.

Taxing times for Kazakhstan

Welcome back to the CAPS Unlock Podcast! After a brief (ahem) break, co-hosts Peter Leonard and Tlegen Kuandykov return with another look at some fresh developments in Central Asia. In this episode: VAT hike drama in Kazakhstan: The government’s proposal to raise VAT sparked public and expert backlash. We break down what this means for the economy, businesses, and the “social contract.” EU-Central Asia connectivity: We sit down with Henrik Hololei, adviser at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships to discuss EU-Central Asia transport links, the Middle Corridor, and how digital solutions can improve regional logistics. And finally, Kyrgyzstan’s anthem competition: Kyrgyzstan is on the hunt for a new national anthem, offering a 1.5 million soms ($17,000) prize for the best composition. What does this mean for national identity and the region’s shifting cultural landscape?  Contact Us: Feedback or suggestions? Reach out at pleonard@capsunlock.org.

Air Pollution in Central Asia and Turkey’s Regional Play

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! Contact Us: Feedback or suggestions? Reach out at pleonard@capsunlock.org.

Mister Putin goes to Astana

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. Contact Us: Feedback or suggestions? Reach out at pleonard@capsunlock.org.

Introduction to CAPS Unlock

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.