Alastair Gill
Bansko, Bulgaria
Alastair Gill is a journalist based in Bansko, Bulgaria.
Seen in RealClearWorld, Worldcrunch, BBC +11 more
Central Asia Is Escaping the ‘Backyard’ Label
Reporting style, Balanced: Analytical and interpretive argument that combines factual geopolitical developments with a clear thesis about Central Asia’s growing strategic autonomy.
Political context, Centre: A geopolitical analysis focused on regional agency and strategic diversification rather than an explicitly ideological or partisan position.
Central Asian states are moving beyond the traditional view of the region as Russia’s backyard or merely an arena for rivalry among Russia, China and the West. The war in Ukraine, sanctions-related disruptions, the Middle Corridor and greater engagement by China, Europe, Türkiye and Gulf states have expanded the region’s strategic options. Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan illustrate a policy of balancing multiple partners rather than replacing one dominant power with another. The article argues that Central Asia is becoming a crossroads with greater agency, although weak institutions and dependence on external powers could still turn new connectivity into another form of dependency.
Bangladesh Is Reshaping Its Relationship with India
Reporting style, Balanced: Analytical and interpretive article that advances an argument about regional power dynamics while grounding it in reported political developments.
Political context, Centre: Center: Provides a geopolitical analysis focused on strategic autonomy and regional power competition rather than an explicitly ideological political position.
Bangladesh’s delayed visit by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to India reflects a broader shift in South Asian geopolitics rather than only tensions surrounding former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Dhaka’s “Bangladesh First” policy seeks greater strategic autonomy through simultaneous engagement with China, Pakistan, the United States and India. India remains Bangladesh’s most consequential neighbour because of geography, infrastructure, trade, energy and security ties, but its influence is becoming conditional rather than automatic. The article argues that New Delhi must build durable relationships across institutions and society, accept Bangladesh’s ties with competing powers and offer mutually beneficial cooperation, while Dhaka must ensure that multi-alignment expands its choices without becoming permanent confrontation or dependence on another major power.