Post-Karimov Uzbekistan lacks forces for change
Significance Karimov's death leaves a void since governance stemmed from him and his ability to coerce and manage Uzbekistan's regional groupings and key political and business players. The National Security Service (SNB), a powerful political force in its own right with connections and placemen throughout government, will play kingmaker. Impacts The other four Central Asian states will watch nervously and hope for less erratic and aggressive Uzbek leadership. Severe economic problems will increase pressure for market reforms which Karimov shirked. With no political alternatives, violent extremism inspired by Islamic State group remains a stability risk.