Friday, March 25
Central Asia in the News
Well, it doesn't happen often, so let's grab the momentum and go with it. Central Asia is in the news, thanks to Kyrgyzstan's revolution. I notice a lot of ambivalence in the reporting of this revolution. Apparently, Georgia and Ukraine are less ambivalent than Central Asia when it comes to "people power"-styled revolutions against dictators. I suppose the suspicion is somewhat warranted, considering Central Asia's nonexistent track record toward democracy and human rights. However, I suspect there's a little Euro-centric leanings in the western press that instantly suspects Asians of being capable of true western-styled democratic reforms.
Daniel Engber of Slate.com has written an interesting article on the Kyrgyz language (and, by extension, its people). It's called How Do You Say "Kyrgyzstan"? - Hint: It's a hard "g.". It's a nice complement to my Central Asia in Words and Pictures article at Almaty or Bust. Check both out.
As always, however, you must go to Eurasianet.org for the most complete coverage of Central Asia. They have several excellent articles examining the opposition leaders and the potential that they can do what the former regime could not do: bring democracy and prosperity to this country. Their conclusion: "Be careful what you wish for..."
Daniel Engber of Slate.com has written an interesting article on the Kyrgyz language (and, by extension, its people). It's called How Do You Say "Kyrgyzstan"? - Hint: It's a hard "g.". It's a nice complement to my Central Asia in Words and Pictures article at Almaty or Bust. Check both out.
As always, however, you must go to Eurasianet.org for the most complete coverage of Central Asia. They have several excellent articles examining the opposition leaders and the potential that they can do what the former regime could not do: bring democracy and prosperity to this country. Their conclusion: "Be careful what you wish for..."
