The Pervasive Nature of Power in Central Asia

In International Relations, “Central Asia” and “power” are often linked to either Great Power politics or authoritarianism. Yet, as “power” is a multifaceted component of social life, this paper suggests a comprehensive framework to analyze its different understandings and operations in the region. By adopting the typology of Michael Barnett and Raymond Duvall, the paper has three aims. First, to review the recent literature on power and Central Asia showing that “power” is a pervasive but undertheorized concept. Second, to broaden the understanding of “power” in the region. Third, to encourage reflexivity when it comes to power analysis.