Perception of the EU in Central Asia: case of Kazakhstan and Tajikistan

Abstract

The article addresses the issue of public perception of the European Union in Central Asia. It employs Kazakhstan and Tajikistan as two cases to explore perception and characteristics attached to the EU by public opinion in the region. Additionally paper examines the relationship between bilateral relations of the studied countries with the EU and its perception. Authors conclude that public perceives EU as neutral actor, who has specific interests in the region related to its own security and prosperity, but also to the wellbeing of the region. However, public opinion does not recognize EU as influential actor in Central Asia.