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3.25.2005 ||> A Tulip FAQ
What is Kyrgyzstan?
Kyrgyzstan is a former soviet republic situated in Central Asia which neighbors China, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. It came to be in September 1991, right before the fall of the USSR. At first considered a model democratic country in a sea of neighboring dictatorships, it has since declined into corruption and nepotism.
Kyrgyzstan has a wildly differing population including Kyrgyz, Uzbeks, Russians, Tatars, etc. It is known for not having as many resources as its neighbors and so economic reforms were necessary in the beginning to shift away from a crushing communist system. Unfortunately, it began to stagnate until now.
How do you pronounce 'Kyrgyzstan'?
There are a couple of different ways. "Keer-ge-stan" is how I do it while others will say "Keer-geez-stan". Both are correct.
What is going on in Kyrgyzstan?
After the parliamentary elections, which were roundly criticized as being corrupt, people started to protest. These protests started in the southern regions and made their way to the capital city of Bishkek where they resulted in forcing the president to flee.
What is the 'Tulip Revolution'?
The protests in Kyrgyzstan were quickly dubbed the 'Tulip Revolution' to draw comparison with the Orange Revolution in Ukraine and the Rose Revolution in Georgia. The tulip is the national flower of Kyrgyzstan, so it fits in with the idea of a nationalized movement.
Does this mean that there will be democracy in Kyrgyzstan?
That remains to be seen. The hope is that the protests will follow others in being peaceful, democratic movements that end up making the country a better place. The movement has not only already shown itself to be a bit more violent, but also seems more factionalized than the other revolutions in former soviet republics.
The president, although no longer in the country, has maintained that he is still in power, while opposition groups have also claimed sovereignty. This could lead to more conflict down the line. One hopes that it's all bluster.
What are some links I can go to for more information?
There are many blogs that have more information than you will find here. For news on the street, some Kyrgyz Peace Corps volunteers are writing about the events when they get a chance. Check out Larry Tweed .
For rapidly developing news, go to registan.net, news.google.com or the associated press.
What if I disagree with your assessment?
That's cool. This is just a first glance at what is going on and was made to answer some simple questions. For a more detailed analysis, go to the links above and find out more!
Have you been adding more information to this post?
Throughout today if there are added questions or new information, I will add it.
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