Commonwealth of Independent States

RIAN archive 848095 Signing the Agreement to eliminate the USSR and establish the Commonwealth of Independent States

Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) is an international organization of Eastern European and Central Asian countries. It was created following the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 to serve as a forum for the former Soviet Republics to maintain economic, political, and military cooperation. The CIS aims to promote coordination in trade, finance, lawmaking, and security, as well as to encourage respect for human rights and the rights of minorities.

History

The CIS was established on December 8, 1991, by the Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine, when the leaders of these countries met in the Belovezha Forest, near Brest, Belarus, and signed the Creation Agreement (also known as the Belavezha Accords). Subsequently, on December 21, 1991, the Alma-Ata Protocol was signed by eight additional former Soviet Republics (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan), which expanded the membership of the CIS. Georgia joined in 1993 but left in 2009 following the Russo-Georgian War.

Objectives and Functions

The main objectives of the CIS include fostering mutual economic and security cooperation, promoting human rights, and ensuring collective defense. The organization operates through several coordinating bodies, such as the Council of Heads of State, the Council of Heads of Government, and the Interparliamentary Assembly. The CIS also facilitates cooperation in combating crime, including terrorism and drug trafficking, and in environmental protection.

Membership

Membership in the CIS is open to former Soviet Republics. As of now, it includes nine full members. Some countries have opted for participation in certain CIS agreements without becoming full members, and these are classified as associate members or observers.

Criticism and Challenges

The effectiveness and relevance of the CIS have been subjects of debate. Critics argue that the organization has struggled to achieve its stated goals, particularly in promoting economic integration and political stability among its member states. The varying levels of commitment and engagement from member states have also posed challenges to the CIS's cohesion and effectiveness.

Recent Developments

In recent years, the CIS has sought to adapt to the changing geopolitical landscape, including dealing with the implications of the European Union's expansion and the increasing influence of China in Central Asia. Economic projects, security collaborations, and efforts to enhance political dialogue continue to be on the CIS agenda, although progress is often slow and uneven.

See Also

• Eurasian Economic Union
• Shanghai Cooperation Organisation
• Collective Security Treaty Organization