Publication

This paper analyzes the security and development prospects for Turkmenistan following the death of autocratic president Sapirmurat Niyazov in December 2006. It examines the dimensions of the succession to Niyazov, looks at the great power struggle for influence in this key Central Asian state and concludes with recommendations for US policymakers. Furthermore, it discusses Niyazov's energy policies, attempts to overcome Turkmenistan's neutrality policy and ways to confine Russian influence in the region.