Comparative analysis of the UK, Russian, and Turkish soft power in the education sector of the Kyrgyz Republic from 2000 to 2021

Central Asia has been a geopolitical hotspot for centuries, with Britain and Russia engaging in a rivalry known as the 'Great Game' during the 19th and early 20th centuries. This region's strategic location and abundant resources make it a prime location for geopolitical interests, with former Soviet republics offering access to the Black and Caspian Seas. Today, competition extends beyond military and political affairs, including economic interactions, cultural exchanges, and humanitarian cooperation. Major players like the USA, China, and Turkey are now involved in this rivalry. However, scholars and policymakers recognize the need for a shift in diplomatic approaches and international relations in light of the changing political landscape in the 2000s. They have been exploring the concept of soft power to attract and persuade others to serve the region's interests. This research delves into the concept of soft power in Kyrgyzstan, a small republic caught in the crossfire of the 'New Great Game' among major powers. Despite its size, Kyrgyzstan has actively pursued a multi-vector policy and has not been passive in the power struggle between major countries. The study uses the Gramscian theory of cultural hegemony to analyse the soft power exerted by Russia, Britain, and Turkey towards Kyrgyzstan from 2000 to 2021, focusing on their financial and institutional investments. The research tests the hypothesis that despite increasing Turkish and British investment, Russia remains dominant in Kyrgyzstan's educational sector due to historical, economic, and political factors. Additionally, Russia's influence in the country is expected to remain strong due to the Soviet legacy, which created a closer integration process between Kyrgyzstan and Russia than with other states outside the region. One of the significant sources of integration is labour migrants, where the Republic received more financial assistance than the total official aid from regional donors.