Martha Brill Olcott Knihy

Tajikistan faces significant challenges as it grapples with governance and economic survival, making it the poorest nation in Central Asia. The situation is exacerbated by the impending withdrawal of international forces from Afghanistan, which raises concerns about regional stability. The book delves into the complexities of these domestic and geopolitical issues, highlighting the precarious position of this mountainous, landlocked country on the brink of failure.

The book explores the complex relationship between Islam and the political landscape of Uzbekistan, highlighting how the religion influences daily life and poses challenges for officials striving to establish a secular, authoritarian regime. It delves into the tension between religious practices and state control, revealing the struggles faced by both the populace and the government in navigating this contentious dynamic.

The book examines the formation and subsequent failure of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. It highlights the initial intentions behind the Belovezh Accords, aimed at fostering cooperation among former Soviet republics. However, the authors argue that the CIS has not achieved its goals of political coordination or economic integration, as the newly independent nations prioritized their sovereignty over collective governance. Insights from leading experts provide a thorough analysis of the challenges faced by the CIS.

A leading authority on Central Asia offers a sweeping review of the region's path from independence to the post-9/11 world. The first decade of Central Asian independence was disappointing for those who envisioned a straightforward transition from Soviet republics to independent states with market economies and democratic political systems.