Virtual Workshop: Tracking Central Asian Economies and Societies with Satellite Night Light Data and Nowcasting Techniques

Discover how satellite night light data and nowcasting techniques are revolutionizing our understanding of Central Asia's economic and societal transformations. This two-part virtual workshop brings together leading international and regional experts to share cutting-edge research and insights into the region’s interconnected dynamics, offering a deeper understanding of its evolving economic and social landscapes.

The event also marks the pre-launch of the UCA Data Hub, a groundbreaking platform designed to advance data-driven research and collaboration in Central Asia. This innovative resource serves as a comprehensive repository of diverse datasets, including satellite night light data, climate patterns,  and socio-economic indicators. By providing access to these rich data sources, the Hub enables students, researchers, and professionals to explore regional challenges and opportunities in unprecedented ways. It is a powerful tool for fostering innovation, supporting education, and driving informed decision-making that addresses the region's most pressing issues.

Workshop details:

Part I

Date: February 4, 2025
Time: 7:30 – 9:30 PM (Bishkek time)
Moderator: Dr. Bohdan Krawchenko, University of Central Asia

Language: English, Russian translation will be provided

• The Geopolitics of Iran-Afghanistan Trade Flows: Dr. Marjan Orang (California Polytechnic University) examines trade patterns using border crossing lights.
• Electricity and Women's Education in Tajikistan: Mavzuna Turaeva, Uyanga Gansukh, and Prof. Charles Becker (Duke University) investigate how continuous electricity access impacts educational attainment for women.
• The evolution of defense-oriented cities in the post-Soviet environment: Kaichao Chang (University of Maryland) and Prof. Charles Becker (Duke University)

Part II

Date: February 11, 2025
Time: 7:30 – 9:30 PM (Bishkek time)
Moderator: Dr. Asel Murzakulova, University of Central Asia

Language: English, Russian translation will be provided

• Economic History of Independent Uzbekistan: Abdumalik Abdukayumov and Prof. Charles Becker (Duke University) reveal Uzbekistan's economic evolution through night light data.
• Spillover Effects of Uzbekistan’s Trade Liberalization: Aaron Lam, Abdumalik Abdukayumov, Uyanga Gansukh, and Prof. Charles Becker (Duke University) assess the impact on Turkmenistan’s border cities.
• Russian Demand for Kyrgyz Migrant Labor: Michelle Schultze (Duke University) utilizes nowcasting techniques to evaluate shifts in labor demand since 2022.

Register here