Author(s): Fareed Shafee
Journal: Caucasian Review of International Affairs
ISSN 1865-6773
Volume: 2;
Issue: 4;
Start page: 200;
Date: 2008;
Original page
Keywords: Azerbaijan | Armenia | Russia | Iran | South Caucasus | Separatism | Irredentism | Ethnic Minority
ABSTRACT
This article examines the external sources of separatism in Azerbaijan. The author claims that in the case of Azerbaijan many separatist movements are fed by outside powers rather than caused by inside sources. This article does not intend to review the situation with regard to the political, economic and cultural rights of ethnic minorities. Azerbaijan, like many other post-Soviet republics, went through a transition period characterized by sharp economic decline, dissolution of social institutions, change of values, etc. Quite rightfully, some claims of leaders of ethnic minorities about discrimination might be reasonable and justifiable. In the circumstances of post-Soviet transition, no country escaped from injustices, disorders and social turbulences. However, in many cases separatist movements were used by regional powers and countries concerned, particularly so-called kin-states to advance their political agenda. The author argues that in Azerbaijan most separatist sentiments are instigated and directed mainly from abroad.
Journal: Caucasian Review of International Affairs
ISSN 1865-6773
Volume: 2;
Issue: 4;
Start page: 200;
Date: 2008;
Original page
Keywords: Azerbaijan | Armenia | Russia | Iran | South Caucasus | Separatism | Irredentism | Ethnic Minority
ABSTRACT
This article examines the external sources of separatism in Azerbaijan. The author claims that in the case of Azerbaijan many separatist movements are fed by outside powers rather than caused by inside sources. This article does not intend to review the situation with regard to the political, economic and cultural rights of ethnic minorities. Azerbaijan, like many other post-Soviet republics, went through a transition period characterized by sharp economic decline, dissolution of social institutions, change of values, etc. Quite rightfully, some claims of leaders of ethnic minorities about discrimination might be reasonable and justifiable. In the circumstances of post-Soviet transition, no country escaped from injustices, disorders and social turbulences. However, in many cases separatist movements were used by regional powers and countries concerned, particularly so-called kin-states to advance their political agenda. The author argues that in Azerbaijan most separatist sentiments are instigated and directed mainly from abroad.