Asia and Africa Today
Media registration certificate: № 0110157 от 04.02.1993
The monthly academic journal and Russia's only periodical focusing on topics and issues in Asia and Africa. (The issues of CIS countries are not considered in the journal.)
Published since July 1957
Until March 1961 has been issued under the title "Sovremennyi Vostok" / "Contemporary East".
Founders
- Russian Academy of Sciences
- Institute of Oriental Studies RAS
- Institute for African Studies
Publisher
- Russian Academy of Sciences
The journal is published under the supervision of the RAS Department of Historical and Philological Sciences (OIFN RAS).
About the journal
Mission of the Journal is to provide a platform for authoritative researchers from Russia, CIS and other countries to discuss processes and events taking place in Asia and Africa.
"Asia and Africa today" publishes scholarly articles on the political, economic and social processes of Asian and African states, their culture and art, reviews of Asian and African literature. The Journal also publishes reviews of the most important scientific events - international conferences of orientalists, symposia and scientific expeditions.
"Asia and Africa today" journal’s authors and audience includes scholars, researchers, PhD students and humanities students, as well as politicians, public figures, experts of Russian and foreign organizations that work with Asian and African countries.
The author's point of view does not necessarily coincide with that of the editorial board.
Objectives
Analysis of socio-political, economic, demographic, environmental, cultural and other processes in Asian and African countries and their history.
The major areas and subjects for presentation in the journal:
- political development of Asian and African countries;
- economic problems of Asian and African countries;
- international relations;
- development economics;
- Asian and African states’ activities in UN and regional international organizations;
- pandemic in Asia and Africa;
- globalization and regionalization;
- civilizational development issues;
- problems of society and the state, democracy and autocracy;
- the emergence and features of civil society;
- food problem in developing states;
- demographic processes and migrations of the population
- aggravation of environmental problems in Asian and African continents;
- ethnic and interfaith conflicts;
- Islam and Christianity and their influence on political processes in Asian and African countries;
- culture, science, education, literature, art;
- religions, beliefs, cults;
- traditions, customs, morals;
- chapters of history;
- Russia – Asia and Africa (political, economic, cultural and other relations of Russia with Asian and African countries).
Tasks
- Assistance to scientific research in the field of Oriental and African studies. Publication of materials on the basis of topical research and theses, and also based on the results of overseas trips and fieldwork. Reviews of key Russian and international conferences and symposiums.
- Involving prominent Russian and foreign researchers as authors.
- Reviewing the most significant works and monographs on the journal’s topics.
- The practical help to young orientalists and africanists. Publication of their materials under the heading "Post-graduate Column".
- Cooperation with Oriental research Centres and Faculties of the Russian higher education institutions, as well as with foreign higher education institutions and research centres. Attraction of researchers and academic lecturers as journal authors. Strengthening and development of cooperation with co-founders of the journal - Institute of Oriental Studies and Institute for African Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences.
Policy
- Prompt reaction to the events taking place in Asian and African countries.
- Extending of topics and improvement of quality of materials to be published.
Indexing
The journal is included in the Higher Attestation Commission List of peer-reviewed scientific publications.
- Russian Scientific Citation Index – a database, accumulating information on papers by Russian scientists, published in native and foreign titles. The Russian Scientific Citation Index project is under development since 2005 by “Electronic Scientific Library” foundation ( elibrary.ru).
- Russian Science Citation Index on Web of Science in partnership with Russia’s Scientific Electronic Library ( eLibrary.ru).
- EBSCO Publishing
Current Issue
Open Access
Access granted
Subscription Access
No 11 (2025)
Politics, economics
Structural Limits of EU's "Strategic Autonomy" in the Indo-Pacific: Role of US and Chinese Policies
Abstract
The article is devoted to the study of structural limitations that prevent the European Union from achieving its stated goal of "strategic autonomy". The aim of the work is to identify the key factors that undermine the independence of the EU policy in the context of the escalating global confrontation between the United States and China. Due to the close allied relations between the EU and the United States, Europe finds itself in the triangle of the United States – China – European Union. The United States seeks to oblige European allies to actively participate in the implementation of programs to contain China. The limited military and political potential of the EU, dependence on the United States in the security sphere, and internal disunity of the member states reduce the declared "strategic autonomy" to the need to balance between Washington and Beijing. The work systematizes the challenges to the EU's foreign policy sovereignty, which contributes to the understanding of the dynamics of modern international relations in the IPR and the transformation of Europe's role in a multipolar world.
Asia and Africa Today. 2025;(11):5-13
5-13
The Kurdish Factor in the Iran-Turkey Rivalry after the Arab Spring
Abstract
The Kurdish question, which has gained renewed relevance amid the transformative processes initiated by the Arab Spring and the intensification of the Syrian conflict, has become one of the central and enduring components of the strategic rivalry between Turkey and Iran. In the context of growing instability and fragmentation of the regional security architecture, Kurdish politico-military entities function not only as targets of coercion but also as strategic assets within the framework of soft and hard power projection pursued by Ankara and Tehran. The article explores the multilayered instrumentalization of the Kurdish factor in the rhetoric, diplomacy, and situational alliances of the two regional powers, identifying elements of pragmatic cooperation persisting despite systemic antagonism. Particular attention is paid to the role of external actors (primarily the United States, Russia, and the Gulf states) in reshaping the political landscape of regional interactions. The Kurdish question is analyzed not merely as a localized ethno-political conflict but as a structurally significant component of the Middle Eastern geopolitical field. The study concludes that the Kurdish factor is deeply embedded within the institutional fabric of regional security and possesses the capacity for adaptive mobilization and participation in the formation of emerging centers of influence.
Asia and Africa Today. 2025;(11):14-23
14-23
Water Scarcity as a Catalyst of Conflict and Transformation in Sudan's Regional Politics
Abstract
Freshwater scarcity, exacerbated by global climate change, poses major challenges for many African countries. Amid socio-economic and political instability, water crises acquire conflict potential, influencing economic development trajectories and, in some cases, the formation of foreign policy. This is particularly relevant for states within major transboundary river basins, where water access is vital for populations. The article examines the characteristics of water resources and their role in the political and economic development of the Republic of the Sudan, which has experienced protracted conflicts since gaining independence in 1956, partly fueled by resource competition. It also analyses the evolution of the Sudanese authorities' stance regarding water allocation mechanisms for the Nile – Africa's largest river – among basin countries, and concerning the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). This unfinished project has the potential to reshape the geopolitical landscape of Northeast Africa.
Asia and Africa Today. 2025;(11):24-34
24-34
Security Cooperation between Russia and the Alliance of Sahel States
Abstract
One of the key hot spots in Africa is the armed conflict in the Sahel region, which has resulted in the destabilisation of the political situation and a series of military coups d'état in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. The new governments of the "Sahel Troika" have made the decision to cease military and technical cooperation with France and created the Alliance of Sahel States (Alliance des États du Sahel, AES), which functions as both a defensive alliance and a regional integration group. An essential component of the counterterrorist strategies of the AES members is security cooperation with Russia, which has sent military instructors and specialists to assist in training national armed forces and law enforcement agencies and to support combat operations against terrorist groups. As a result, the troops of the AES member states have managed to achieve significant progress in fighting terrorism. This fact has highlighted the weakness of the former metropole, which failed to provide effective support to the "Sahel Troika", and has threatened the regional positions of the collective West. The latter is accused of trying to keep its African allies weak to maintain neocolonial influence. African countries are closely watching Russia's progress in the Sahel region, considering it not only as a partner but also as a potential security provider.
Asia and Africa Today. 2025;(11):35-42
35-42
Problems and Prospects for the Development of Eurasian Transport Corridors after 2022: Russia's Role
Abstract
The article analyzes problems and challenges, and development prospects of two international transport corridors (ITC) – East–West and North–South – after the beginning of special military operation. Particular emphasis is placed on the consequences of economic shocks and changes in supply logistics after 2022. The greatest potential for modernization of the East–West corridor is the increase in the volume of freight traffic in Russia's trade with the Central Asian countries – Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. The article also reveals that a significant obstacle to the modernization of the North–South ITC is the lack of service infrastructure, limited availability of ports with container terminals, as well as the uneven development of railway networks, especially in Iran and Azerbaijan. At the same time, a promising direction of the North–South ITC is the development of the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway network.
Asia and Africa Today. 2025;(11):43-53
43-53
Development of Hydrogen Energy in Russia and China: Current Status, Plans and Potential for Cooperation
Abstract
In recent years, Russian-Chinese cooperation in the energy sector has demonstrated a sustained positive trend, laying the groundwork for the development of new areas, such as hydrogen energy. Russia possesses rich natural resources and the potential for hydrogen production, while China is the world's largest energy consumer and actively invests in expanding the use of low-carbon energy sources. The article analyzes the development of the hydrogen energy sector in Russia and China and explores the potential for bilateral cooperation against the backdrop of intensifying global trends towards achieving climate (carbon) neutrality, along with the impact of sanctions pressure from the West. Despite existing challenges, a significant increase in the consumption of "clean" hydrogen is projected by 2030, which could help strengthen the positions of both countries in the emerging global market. Special attention is given to the interregional aspect of this cooperation, extended to other BRICS members, which creates unique opportunities for stakeholders from these countries to collaborate on developing and implementing innovative solutions and products.
Asia and Africa Today. 2025;(11):54-63
54-63
BRICS today
Prospects for Nuclear Energy in BRICS+ within the New Technological Order
Abstract
The article examines the state of nuclear energy in BRICS+ countries within the new technological paradigm. The key trends in its development have been identified, along with the prospects for scientific, technological, and multilateral cooperation within the association, as well as the role of energy security in ensuring the resilience of its member states' economies. The study reveals that energy deficits pose challenges for nations striving for economic sustainability and carbon neutrality, yet also present opportunities to build an energy system capable of providing stable, affordable, and environmentally safe power supply for growing populations. One potential solution is small modular reactors, which could meet the energy demands of specific regions and cities. Their implementation could drive technological, economic, demographic, and innovative growth, strengthening both individual countries and the entire bloc.
Asia and Africa Today. 2025;(11):64-74
64-74
Post-graduate tribune
South Africa's and Nigeria's Activities at the UN: Quest for Leadership in Africa
Abstract
The article offers a comparative analysis of South Africa's and Nigeria's foreign policy behaviour at the United Nations, viewed through the lens of their regional leadership ambitions. The author proposes a three-pronged approach to the analysis, combining quantitative assessment of voting practices in the General Assembly, content analysis of addresses to the UNGA and an exploration of country-specific priorities, strategies and partnerships within the Security Council. The study suggests that South Africa acts more assertively across UN structures, advancing both the pan-African agenda and its own diplomatic initiatives. Pretoria effectively balances regional interests with those of key external partners, thereby reinforcing its image as a continental leader. Nigeria, by contrast, tends to focus on issues linked to domestic challenges or its immediate subregional context. This inward orientation limits Abuja's potential to articulate broader African interests on the global stage. The divergence in approaches highlights South Africa's comparative advantage in using multilateral diplomacy to strengthen its leadership position within Africa and expand its international influence through the UN system.
Asia and Africa Today. 2025;(11):75-82
75-82