RESEARCH • ANALYSIS • ADVISORY

Understanding Central Asia.
Informing decisions.

Target Research provides research, evaluation and political analysis for organisations working in Central Asia. Based in the region, we combine field research with analysis of political, economic and governance developments.

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EVIDENCE REVIEW · OCTOBER 2026

Youth Employment in Central Asia

In all four countries young women are more likely than young men to be out of work and education, three times as likely in Tajikistan. What the evidence says works, and what to test first.

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INSIDE THE REVIEW

Twelve pages on Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, drawing on national surveys and donor programme evaluations.

Research & Insights

Central Asia Trajectory Snapshot, October 2026: positions and 12–18-month trajectories for five countries on five dimensions.

Political Control Tightens in Central Asia

Political control is tightening by different routes in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. Economic growth is high, and so is the region’s exposure to decisions made outside it.

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LIVE TRACKER

Central Asia Trajectory Tracker

Monthly positions and trajectories for five countries on five dimensions, with the reasoning each time an arrow moves.

METHODS & PRACTICE

Lessons Learned as Strategic Tools

Why lessons learned studies are more than a reporting requirement.

ANALYTICAL BRIEF

What Investors Need to Understand About Central Asia

Political systems, geopolitical hedging, and execution risks shaping investment outcomes.

FLASH NOTE

China’s Fuel Channel to Kyrgyzstan

Chinese fuel deliveries to Kyrgyzstan started as an emergency measure. A visa-free lane for Chinese fuel drivers suggests Bishkek is building the channel to last.

Our Services

01

Research and Evaluation

Needs assessments, programme evaluations, surveys and focus groups, designed and analysed by senior researchers, with fieldwork in local languages.

02

Strategic Advisory

Ongoing analytical support for organisations that need context, interpretation and an independent view of political and economic developments in Central Asia.

03

Target Trajectory Monitor

Monthly political and economic intelligence on Central Asia, focused on developments that may shape the region over the next 12–18 months.

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Why Target Research

Senior-Led Analysis

All work is led directly by experienced researchers, ensuring coherence, judgment, and accountability.

Contextual Depth

Grounded understanding of political and institutional dynamics in Central Asia, based on long-term regional engagement.

Independent Perspective

Analysis is not shaped by advocacy or predefined narratives, but by evidence, context, and professional judgment.

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