CURRENT SECURITY SITUATION IN THE SOUTH CAUCASUS: WIDER REGIONAL CONTEXT

Abstract

While unsolved conflicts in the South Caucasus are sometimes labelled “frozen”, that is basically a misnomer: there is a volatile situation with a potential for large-scale violence. In addition to the persistent threat for human security, the situation in that part of the EU’s periphery may potentially threat oil and gas supply routes and other transportation corridors, particularly between Europe and Central Asia. Furthermore, the situation is additionally complicated by multiple antagonisms between global and regional powers. This article offers a review of the situation taking into consideration the mentioned issues and examining the current security situation in the South Caucasus within a wider regional context. The article also examines Russia’s regional interests and the attitudes of other regional actors – Iran and Turkey, and their relations with the South Caucasian countries.