Elvira Aidarkhanova is a Research Fellow at the Center for the National Interest, specializing in international relations and Eurasian affairs. Her research focuses on geopolitical dynamics across Central Asia, Afghanistan, Russia, and the broader post-Soviet space. She has worked with and contributed to leading think tanks in both Central Asia and the United States and has been involved in regional analytical networks across Central Asia. Elvira has co-authored analytical reports and policy papers, including the Center’s Afghanistan’s Qosh Tepa Canal and Water Security in Central Asia, and has contributed expert commentary to outlets such as The National Interest, The Diplomat, Central Asian Analytical Network, and Forbes Kazakhstan. Prior to joining the Center, she held academic and research positions, including as an Assistant Professor in Kazakhstan and as a fellow with U.S.-based think tanks. Elvira holds a Master of Arts in Human Science and an MBA, and she is currently a PhD candidate in International Relations.

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