Russia’s Soft Power in the Kyrgyz Republic: A Study of Russian Influence in Central Asia
This research project aims to explore and analyze Russia’s multifaceted roles and influence in the Kyrgyz Republic. Globally, Russia has become a soft superpower. Regionally, Russia remains a leading actor and influencer in Central Asia. Russia’s influence in the Kyrgyz Republic is complex, strong and deeply rooted in the two countries’ shared past.
I explore Russia’s intentional and unintentional influence on the Kyrgyz Republic and analyze its leverage and linkages. In doing so, I engage in an unbiased discussion in which Russia is neither a villain nor a hero, but rather an important and unique actor whose historical and current roles can be researched through the case of the Kyrgyz Republic.
When completed, this research project will result in a number of research articles and policy papers that cover various aspects of the Kyrgyz–Russian relations and provide comparative perspectives on Russia’s use of soft power and, specifically, public diplomacy.