Spotlight on Central Asia

Author: spotlightoncentralasia

A fortnightly podcast offering analysis of Central Asia and its role in the wider world, featuring regional news, insights, and expert perspectives. Hosted by Bruce Pannier and Michael Hilliard. Proudly presented by The Times of Central Asia, The Oxus Society for Central Asian Affairs and the European Neighbourhood Council. For more info and stories, please visit: - The Times of Central Asia (https://timesca.com/) - The Oxus Society (https://oxussociety.org/)
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Genres: News, News Commentary, Politics

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Silk Roads, Snap Elections, and Security Shuffles
Episode 1
Sunday, 19 October, 2025

Spotlight on Central Asia returns with a brand new season and a closer look at the stories shaping the region. This week, we unpack Kyrgyzstan's snap election announcement and its controversial debate over reinstating the death penalty, major electoral reforms in Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan's latest Caspian gas ambitions, and sweeping changes within Kyrgyzstan's military leadership. Plus, we speak with historian Peter Frankopan, author of The Silk Roads, on why Central Asia is once again becoming the heart of global trade and power. On the show this week: - Peter Frankopan (Professor of Global History at Worcester College) Hosted by Bruce Pannier and Michael Hilliard Proudly brought to you by The Times of Central Asia, The Oxus Society for Central Asian Affairs and the European Neighbourhood Council. For more info please visit: - The Times of Central Asia (https://timesca.com/) - The Oxus Society (https://oxussociety.org/) Follow us on Twitter on - Spotlight on Central Asia (@SLonCentralAsia) - Bruce Pannier (@BrucePannier) - Michael Hilliard (@MikeHilliardAus) - The Times of Central Asia (@thetimesoca) An Oxus Society Production.