A. Regionalism in Central Asia and the Politics of Energy

Although its hydrocarbon reserves are exceeded by those of the Middle East, Central Asia is nevertheless poised to play an important role in the production and trade of oil and gas in the 21st century. At the same time, Central Asian countries face a diverse range of challenges, including security threats from terrorism, religious extremism and organized crime as well as the deteriorating situations in and around neighboring Afghanistan and Iran; the still-incomplete legal regime of the Caspian Sea, and the need to develop new and existing energy export routes. How can Central Asian countries address these challenges and realize their potential as major energy producers? How might the energy demands of external powers—such as Russia, the United States, China and the European Union—lead them to exert influence over the region?

B. Leadership Transition in Russia: Continuity or Change?

Not with standing Vladimir Putin’s re-election, there remain numerous questions about the trajectory of his administration and whether it will simply be a continuation of his past policies. While the man in the Kremlin may be the same, the political context has changed. The unprecedented protests against Putin during his campaign point to deeper economic stagnation and to rising popular dissatisfaction with corruption and Russia’s governance. Similarly, Russia’s international context is changing as China’s influence continues to grow, political instability sweeps the Middle East, and the United States focuses increasingly on Iran. How will Russia’s new (old?) leadership cope with these new challenges?