CATALYSTS OF ETHNOPOLITICAL CONTROVERSIES IN THE CAUCASUS REGION

Abstract

The article is devoted to the analysis of the sources of ethnopolitical conflicts in the North and South Caucasus. The factors influencing the development of ethno-political problems and crises, the fragmentation of society according to ethnocultural and religious characteristics, the politicization of ethnicity, etc. The special geostrategic importance of the Caucasus region in the foreign policy of the leading world powers, primarily Russia, is noted, in connection with which, it is analyzed: the influence of political transformations of recent decades on ethno-political processes, the role of ethnic elites, issues of intergroup interaction in the Caucasus, ethnic identity, etc. The following catalysts for ethno-political contradictions in the Caucasus region have been identified: ethno-confessional heterogeneity of the region; territorial disputes; status differences in the territorial structure of the Soviet state; irredentist tendencies. Based on the identified sources of contradictions, the following types of Caucasian ethnopolitical conflicts can be distinguished: conflicts caused by territorial disputes; conflicts associated with actions to realize the right of peoples to self-determination; Conflicts provoked by a change in political and legal status and position of administrative-territorial units.