Publication

This paper discusses a number of issues relating to the geopolitical forces which are at play in the South Caucasus region which comprises the former Soviet states of Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia. The first part of the paper discusses how geopolitical contests between the South Caucasus countries as well as external actors, such as Russia, the EU and the US, have created a dense web of interdependent relationships that affect governance and values; security and conflict; and trade and energy in the region. The second part discusses the main interests which the EU, Russia, Turkey, the US and Iran have in the South Caucasus. The final section then outlines basic steps that the EU can take to influence democracy and security in the region.