Regional Security Regime Emerging in Central Asia

Abstract This study investigates the dynamics of regime-oriented cooperation among Central Asian states, with a focus on mechanisms aimed at ensuring regime survival. Drawing on regime theory, it analyzes the core principles and practices employed by key state actors to maintain political stability. The paper argues that a distinct, regionally defined regime has been emerging across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Unlike the region’s uneven economic cooperation, this regime framework fosters full inclusivity among all five states, while remaining compatible with their domestic power structures and diverse foreign policy orientations. The analysis further explores how this regional dimension is both expressed by member states and acknowledged by neighboring actors. Finally, the study assesses the opportunities and limitations of researching regime-supporting mechanisms, particularly those evolving in real time.