The CAPS Unlock podcast is your weekly guide to the key political, economic, and social developments shaping Central Asia. Each episode begins with a deep dive into a major news story, unpacking its significance and broader implications for the region. We then sit down with a guest — whether a policymaker, analyst, journalist, or expert working on the ground — to explore an issue in greater depth, bringing fresh insights and perspectives to the conversation.
Produced in collaboration with the Havli Substack newsletter, the podcast extends our commitment to thoughtful analysis and informed discussion on the region.
We’d love to hear from you! Your feedback is invaluable in shaping future episodes. Let us know what you think, what we can improve, and what topics or issues deserve more attention. Get in touch at pleonard@capsunlock.org.
As EU leaders gathered with Central Asian presidents in Samarkand, the summit promised partnership and billions in investment. But on the ground, the optics told a more controlled story. Meanwhile, Kazakhstan and the EU edge toward a visa facilitation deal that could reshape how people move between the two regions.
As drones target Russian oil infrastructure, Kazakhstan walks a geopolitical tightrope. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan turns to dialogue in response to Afghanistan’s new canal on the Amu Darya. What these two stories reveal about Central Asia’s cautious balancing act.
Reporting from the scene of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan landmark treaty signing. Inside the signing of an agreement that could reshape Central Asian diplomacy.
Kyrgyz-Tajik border deal, Uzbekistan’s unshakeable graft habit. And for this week’s interview, we spoke with Aizhan Alzhanova, a representative of Mama Pro, a Kazakhstan-based organisation dedicated to supporting mothers of children with special needs.
Kyrgyz-Tajik border deal, Afghanistan rail, and teaching climate change. A historic border treaty, shifting trade routes, and how climate education could reshape Kazakhstan’s future.
Kazakhstan oil caught in Russia-Ukraine crossfire. Astana’s (non-)reaction to a drone strike on vital oil transportation infrastructure, Kyrgyzstan’s move to bring surveillance culture into schools, and the economic toll of air pollution.
Taxing times for Kazakhstan. A debate around VAT and Kyrgyzstan’s search for a new soundtrack. Also, how to develop EU-Central Asia connectivity.
Air pollution in Central Asia and Turkey’s regional play. Also, how Syria’s shifting dynamics ripple through Central Asia’s security and geopolitics.
As well as talking about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Kazakhstan, we spoke to Terhi Hakala, outgoing EU Special Representative for Central Asia, about Brussels’ evolving posture toward the region.
Introducing the podcast. Listen here for more.
