Central Asian Regionalism or Central Asian Order? Some Reflections

Abstract This article reflects on how the concept of regionalism has been used to explain and interpret Central Asian politics since independence. It argues that regionalism, often a norm-laden analytical category based Eurocentric assumptions, tends paint region as “failed” regional states incapable institutionalizing multilateral relations. In its place, suggests order, which is more neutral and—through focus operation sovereignty, diplomacy, international law, authoritarianism, great power management—is able incorporate elements both conflict cooperation have marked region’s 1991.