Between Essentialism and Multiple Identities: Central Asia as Part of the East, South and the World

In this article, the author reflects on issues raised by two Central Asian scholars, Nari Shelekpayev and Aminat Chokobaeva, in their comments Martin Müller’s idea of “Global East”, as well itself. Asia, Russia, essentialism is widespread; it difficult to call “tactical,” Chokobaeva do. They correctly consider East” be a political project, but its nature must understood based concept South” an emancipatory project against domination North Eurocentrism. Eurocentrism, manifested even still strong academic world. However, today’s world, where rivalry getting fiercer between great powers, including powers South East, for strategies Global or East succeed. Small countries middle need tact respond flexibly changing conditions working with different partners. respect, Asia’s multiple identities can beneficial it.