This study outlines the creation and evolution of the SCO, the main aspects of its activity, the ways in which China, Russia, Kazakhstan and other Central Asian countries approach the Organisation, and its role in providing regional security. The contributors attempted to clarify whether the SCO may become a key, effective pillar for the stable and safe evolution of Central Eurasia, as well as its real capacity to fundamentally reform the problem of security and stability in this region.

The study is based on analysis of official SCO documents, original Russian and Chinese sources, as well as assessments of experts from Central Asia.