Emerging perspectives and contemporary debates: assessing the landscape of online media communication research in Central Asia

Abstract

Abstract This review essay offers an exhaustive examination of the multifaceted role of online media within the Central Asian context. Comprising 11 sections, the essay scrutinizes diverse facets of online media’s impact, spanning from its role in political dynamics to its implications for society, governance, national identity, cultural expression, and e-learning. By identifying recurring patterns, spotlighting ongoing debates, and revealing lacunae in extant scholarship, the essay aims to catalyze further research. Serving as an indispensable resource for scholars, policymakers, and those with an interest in the transformative potential of online media in Central Asia, the review underscores the complexity and dynamism inherent in the influence of online media within the region, fostering a more profound appreciation of this rapidly evolving field of study.