Stretching from the Caspian Sea in the west to Mongolia in the east, and from Iran in the south to Russia in the north, Central Asia is a rich mosaic of cultures and histories. This diversity is reflected not only in the vast number of ethnic groups, languages, religions and tribes present in the region, but also in the number of security challenges.

The unsettled border disputes between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, uncertainties in southern Kyrgyzstan, consequences of the Tajik Civil War, regional water and energy quarrels, and efforts to combat terrorism continue to impact peace, justice and security in Central Asia.

This study presents six case studies of fragile areas in Central Asia. It explores their historical background as well as their proximate and structural causes. After mapping the actors involved in the conflicts, it identifies the current stage of each fragility, and analyzes responses to them, including confidence building and conflict resolution initiatives implemented by local, national, regional and international organizations. It demonstrates DCAF’s firm commitment to advancing good security sector governance in Central Asia.

It is aimed at academics, researchers and practitioners working on issues related to peace, justice, and security in Central Asia, and provides a valuable resource for those seeking to better understand this complex and dynamic region.