– Salim Ayoubzod (Radio Free Liberty) – Edward Lemon (The Oxus Society for Central Asian Affairs)

Stephen M. Bland is a journalist, author, editor, commentator, and researcher specializing in Central Asia and the Caucasus. Prior to joining The Times of Central Asia, he worked for NGOs, think tanks, as the Central Asia expert on a forthcoming documentary series, for the BBC, The Diplomat, EurasiaNet, and numerous other publications. His award-winning book on Central Asia was published in 2016, and he is currently putting the finishing touches to a book about the Caucasus.