CAREC Institute Chai Talk Explores Inclusive Development in Central Asia

The CAREC Institute recently hosted an online Chai Talk, “The Central Asian Development Pivot: New Approaches, New Opportunities,” bringing together academics and policy experts to explore development models rooted in the region’s unique institutional, historical, and cultural contexts.

Dr. Kuat Akizhanov, Deputy Director Two of the CAREC Institute, opened the session by sharing findings from the Institute’s research on Addressing Socio-Economic Inequality: Decent Work in CAREC’s Green and Digital Transitions. He briefed participants on the current landscape, emphasizing the importance of ensuring this dual transition is inclusive and delivers tangible benefits to communities across the region.

The panel featured insights from Dr. Balihar Sanghera and Dr. Franco Galdini of the University of Birmingham, alongside Dr. Galym Zhussipbek from Suleiman Demirel University. Experts examined critical social dynamics, including profit distribution, resource management, and the role of cultural traditions in upholding social rights and human dignity.

Discussions highlighted the need to look beyond traditional development metrics, focusing instead on strategies to narrow regional development gaps and foster inclusive governance. The dialogue also explored ways to incorporate civil, political, social, and economic dimensions into regional development frameworks, and how academic research can better inform policymaking. Furthermore, experts examined the social implications of the green and digital transitions and the challenge of balancing individual and collective rights within the broader development context.

Through its Chai Talk series, the CAREC Institute continues to foster open, inclusive dialogue, bridging research and policy to advance sustainable development across the region.