Geo-strategy in the South Caucasus: power play and energy security of states and organisations

Haas, M. de; Cillissen, V.; Tibold, A.

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Institute of Security and Global Affairs

Haas, M. de; Cillissen, V.; Tibold, A. (2006)

Geo-strategy in the South Caucasus: power play and energy security of states and organisations

Research paper

The current and increasing interest of local, regional and global actors in the region is related, in particular, to the possible reserves of oil and natural gas in the Caspian Sea. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, slumbering ethnic sentiments were unleashed and developed into violent conflicts. Subsequently, weak state structures and tense relations between ethic groups have caused instability, political disagreement, conflicts and economic decline. Furthermore, in addition to local reasons for conflict, the political-strategic and economic importance of the South Caucasus has been ground for (attempts at) involvement in this area by states and organisations, such as Iran, Turkey, Russia, the USA, NATO and the EU.