Kunduz Niiazova is a 2024-2025 Cotler Fellow originally from Kyrgyzstan, currently working on her PhD at Tel Aviv University that bridges Central Asian history, Jewish studies, and Soviet cultural identity. Her research, titled “Empire, Nationality, and Modernity in Soviet Kyrgyzstan: Nexus of Kyrgyz-Jewish Intellectuals and Formation of Kyrgyz Cultural Identity 1930-1970,” explores the intersections of Soviet Kyrgyz national culture, intellectual exchange, and the role of Jewish intellectuals in shaping the Kyrgyz cultural identity during a time of intense political and social change.

Delving into the legacies of the Russian Empire, Kunduz’s research examines how intellectuals in Soviet Kyrgyzstan navigated their dual roles as agents of modernization while preserving aspects of their national identity. Specifically, she focuses on how Jewish intellectuals, who migrated to the region during the Second World War and due to Soviet cadre politics, interacted with the local elite, playing a key role in shaping Kyrgyzstan’s national narrative. Through this lens, she highlights how cultural exchanges and collaborations between Jewish and Kyrgyz intellectuals contributed to the formation of a modern Kyrgyz national identity.

In addition to her academic work, Kunduz has ambitious goals for the future. She aspires to establish Jewish Studies and Israel Studies in Central Asia and open a Jewish Museum in the region to highlight Jewish-Kyrgyz history, particularly during the period of the Second World War. Her vision for the museum includes focusing on the Jewish evacuees who found refuge in Soviet Kyrgyzstan and their integral role in the country’s modernization. Kunduz also hopes to foster stronger ties between Israel and Kyrgyzstan by initiating the Kyrgyz-Israel House of Friendship, a cultural and diplomatic center aimed at promoting intercultural dialogue, supporting Kyrgyz-Jewish relations, and engaging in humanitarian work.

Kunduz’s personal connection to the region is deep, and her interest in the shared histories of Kyrgyz and Jewish peoples is reflected in her own cultural exploration. A key moment in her life was when she discovered a connection between the Kyrgyz epic Manas—the largest oral epic in the world—and the biblical story of Jacob, whose son was named Manasseh. This discovery led her to Israel, where she sought to understand the emergence of the State of Israel after the Holocaust. Her academic focus shifted towards the role of Jewish intellectuals in Kyrgyzstan during and after the Second World War, contributing to her growing academic and personal ties to Israel.

In her free time, Kunduz enjoys spending time with her son. Together, they explore the world through playful activities like building with Legos, learning about the planets, visiting playgrounds, and watching cartoons. One of her favorite activities in Israel is playing chess with her son at the beach, where they can enjoy the sea breeze and the beauty of the coastline. Kunduz is also fond of the cultural and social aspects of Israeli life, particularly the idea of Shabbat as a time to gather family and friends around the dinner table. Her favorite places in Israel include the Old City of Jerusalem, the Yarkon River, Gordon Beach, and Levinsky Market in Tel Aviv, all of which reflect her love for the country's rich history, vibrant culture, and dynamic landscapes.