Culture, History, and Geopolitics in Central Asia

This cutting-edge volume explores the multifaceted identity of a region that has been a melting pot for civilizations through the ages, and a key player in contemporary geopolitics.

The book’s comprehensive approach offers a unique perspective that integrates cultural, historical, and geopolitical insights, providing readers with a deeper understanding of Central Asia’s past, present, and its potential future on the global stage. Encompassing Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, this book provides an in-depth exploration of Central Asia’s diverse cultural heritage, tracing its roots through Islamic, Turkic, Persian, and Russian influences. It examines the rich history of the region, from ancient trade routes like the Silk Road to the profound impacts of the Mongol Empire and Russian dominance. By analyzing trade routes like the Belt and Road Initiative as well as various regional security challenges, the book sheds light on the contemporary issues shaping the region.

Central Asia's historical significance, cultural diversity, and geopolitical relevance make it a rich field of study across multiple academic disciplines. It will therefore be of relevance to scholars, researchers and postgraduate students in the fields of Central Asian studies, international relations, and globalization more broadly.

Debasish Nandy (Ph.D.) is Associate Professor and the Head of the Department of Political Science at Kazi Nazrul University in Asansol, West Bengal. In addition, he coordinates the Centre for Studies of South and South-East Asian Societies at the same university, where he fosters interdisciplinary research and cultural exchange. Beyond his academic roles, he has been recognised for his cultural contributions and research excellence.

Nargiz Hajiyeva (Ph.D.) is a Postdoc Research Fellow at the University of Michigan and Chair of UNEC Women Researchers Council at Azerbaijan State University of Economics (UNEC).

Monojit Das (Ph.D.) is an independent researcher specialising in geopolitics and national security.