Publication

This report analyzes the role of the cotton industry in Central Asia. It focuses on the economics and politics of cotton, and outlines the social and environmental costs of the cotton industry. It argues that the cotton industry in Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan contributes to political repression, economic stagnation, poverty and environmental degradation. Without structural reform in the industry, it will be extremely difficult to improve economic development, tackle poverty and social deprivation, and promote political liberalization in the region.