Kaukasos kai Kentriki Asia / Caucasus and Central Asia

the long version

The brief period of independence for the five new republics of Central Asia is examined from the point of view of their place in the international system. Their attempt to create a national identity is also evaluated. Special topics such as the initiatives of market liberalization and social reform are considered, in conjunction to the anti-corruption campaign launched immediately after the collapse of communism. Islamic identity patterns together with the appearance of political Islam are examined in detail. Russia’s role is also examined, as is the entanglement of Iran, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia. The appearance of the Taliban, before the U.S. intervention in the area, is examined in detail and in regard to social norms imposed by their regime in the South-eastern territories, as well as their relations with Pakistan and the Tatjik warlords in the North.