Clan Politics and Regime Transition in Central Asia
Cambridge University Press, 4/27/2006
EAN 9780521839501, ISBN10: 0521839505
Hardcover, 400 pages, 22.9 x 15.2 x 2.5 cm
Language: English
This book is a study of the role of clan networks in Central Asia from the early twentieth century through 2004. Exploring the social, economic, and historical roots of clans, and their political role and political transformation in the Soviet and post-Soviet periods, it argues that clans are informal political actors that are critical to understanding politics in this region. The book demonstrates that the Soviet system was far less successful in transforming and controlling Central Asian society, and in its policy of eradicating clan identities, than has often been assumed. In order to understand Central Asian politics and their economies, scholars and policy makers must take into account the powerful role of these informal groups, how they adapt and change over time, and how they may constrain or undermine democratization in this strategic region.
List of Tables and Figures
Preface
Acknowledgements
Note on Transliteration
1. An introduction to political development and transition in Central Asia
2. Clan politics and regime transition in Central Asia
a framework for understanding politics in clan-based societies
3. Colonialism to Stalinism
the dynamic between clans and the State
4. The informal politics of Central Asia from Brezhnev through Gorbachev
5. Transition from above or below? (1990–1991)
6. Central Asia's transition (1991–1995)
7. Central Asia's regime transformation (1995–2004)
Part I
8. Central Asia's regime transformation (1995–2004)
Part II
9. Positive and negative political trajectories in clan-based societies
10. Conclusion
Epilogue
Appendix
Index.