CONTROLLED CONNECTIONS: Chinese ICT Influence on Surveillance in Uzbekistan

Abstract

The increasing role of Chinese Information and Communications Technology (ICT) investments in Central Asia raises concerns about the implications for digital authoritarianism and governance practices in the region. Digital authoritarianism, characterized by government use of digital technologies for surveillance and control, raises concerns about privacy, freedom of expression, and access to information. Through surveillance, manipulation, and threats to privacy, authoritarian regimes maintain power and suppress dissent. Central Asia, particularly Uzbekistan, has become a focal point for Chinese ICT investments, ranging from infrastructure development to the “Safe City” systems rollout. Understanding the impact of these investments on governance and citizen rights is crucial for assessing the broader implications for digital authoritarianism in the region. Moreover, understanding the specifics of Chinese ICT aid and how it differs between countries is important to this discussion, as this directly impacts this question of digital authoritarianism. Thus, this thesis examines two interrelated questions. The first, is what are the key differences in Chinese ICT involvement between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, and what factors contribute to these differences? Does Chinese investment in ICT infrastructure influence governance and surveillance practices in Uzbekistan, and if so how?

This study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining empirical analysis using AidData for comparative analysis and process tracing methodology. Data from official sources, academic research, and media reports are utilized to provide a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics at play. The analysis finds that Chinese ICT investments in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan are influenced by local government conditions and attitudes towards China. While Uzbekistan demonstrates a higher reliance on Chinese technologies, Kazakhstan exhibits a more diversified approach. Additionally, the study identifies the role of Chinese firms in facilitating government surveillance practices, highlighting the risks associated with increased Chinese ICT use. More importantly though, it shows the active role of the Government of Uzbekistan in this process and underscores that the strengthened control of Uzbek citizens is made possible by the limited protections afforded to citizens and the government's history of suppressing dissent. Contrary to popular beliefs, at least in the case of Uzbekistan, there wasn't sufficient evidence to substantiate the assertion that the Chinese government is intentionally spreading advanced surveillance technologies to authoritarian regimes in order to rival the liberal world order. These findings have significant policy implications for domestic and international stakeholders in addressing the challenges posed by digital authoritarianism and promoting democratic values in digital governance. Specifically, policymakers in Uzbekistan should prioritize strengthening legal frameworks to safeguard digital privacy and civil liberties and should focus on promoting innovation and competitiveness within the domestic technology sector to offer viable alternatives to Chinese technologies. International cooperation, with active involvement from the U.S., is vital in shaping global policy landscapes to mitigate the risks of digital authoritarianism and uphold democratic principles in digital governance.