On December 6, ACMCU Visiting Professor Dr. Shireen Hunter discussed her recent book The New Geopolitics of the South Caucasus, which examines the record of the three South Caucasian states—Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan since they gained independence 25 years ago. Dr. Hunter highlighted the importance of regional conflicts and contexts, explaining that the South Caucasus are very much impacted by events in surrounding countries. Recalling her time in Yerevan in 2005 when many were concerned about an imminent U.S. attack on Iran, Dr. Hunter said “the specter of conflict has been hovering over the South Caucuses.”
Dr. Hunter outlined how Middle Eastern politics in particular have had negative impacts on the Caucus region. She suggested that large powers must work to strike deals that address basic security concerns for each state, but also allow for regional dynamics to come into play. Ultimately, Dr. Hunter advocated for moderate, inclusive development measures that work with internal and regional realities to achieve security and balance.
Category: Event Coverage, Videos
Title: The New Geopolitics of the South Caucasus
Date Published: January 17, 2018