Central Asian states vary from virus action to denial

Subject

Health emergency responses in Central Asia.

Significance

Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan first reported COVID-19 cases in mid-March. Tajikistan's government was initially in denial but acknowledged cases at the end of April. Turkmenistan still maintains that it has no cases. Although official figures are probably understated, the five Central Asian republics thus far appear to have avoided outbreaks on the scale seen in Europe, the United States and their near neighbour China.

Impacts

• Turkmenistan's inaction fits with a long history of neglecting healthcare and welfare.
• Tajikistan's delayed response reflects (probably unfounded) worries about political stability.
• Governments may heighten digital surveillance technology use well after COVID-19 recedes.