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Accepted Paper:
Is Central Asia Central?
Rahat Sabyrbekov
(OSCE Academy in Bishkek)
Indra Overland
(Norwegian Institute of International Affairs)
In academic literature, Central Asia is often assumed to be an important part of the world. The region is portrayed as an arena for competition among the great powers, a source of petroleum resources that are vital for energy security in other parts of the world, and a major crossroads for international transport and trade flows. This article assesses the veracity of the assumption about Central Asia’s centrality by subjecting it to rigorous empirical analysis. It does construct a multidimensional index for Central Asia, combining these social, economic, and cultural indicators, and comparing this with non-Central Asian countries. The research paper uncovers the level of integration of Central Asia into the global economy and culture. The findings of this study will be useful for scholars and policymakers to identify the research gaps and possible policy actions.