Uncovering the Causes of Conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh

Nagorno-Karabakh, an inland region located in the Caucasus Mountains, is the site of a long-running territorial conflict between the two former Soviet countries of Armenia and Azerbaijan. For decades, these two countries have been in a state of war over control of this region, and their conflict has frequently been marked by violent flare-ups. The conflict centers on the autonomous region of Nagorno-Karabakh, which is currently controlled by Armenia. This region was one of several autonomous regions in the former Soviet Union, and was initially integrated with Soviet Azerbaijan when it was formed in 1923. In 1988, however, the region declared independence, leading to a full-fledged war between the two countries. While the war has officially ended, the ceasefire agreement leaves Nagorno-Karabakh unresolved. The region remains a de facto part of Armenia, while Azerbaijan retains its claim to the region. This continued stalemate over the region has led to periodic clashes between the two countries, with each side attempting to take more control of the region. At the center of these clashes is the question of whether Nagorno-Karabakh is an independent state, or whether it should remain part of Azerbaijan. Armenia’s continued control of the region has led to accusations of Armenia unfairly occupying a part of Azerbaijan. Likewise, Azerbaijan continues to exert political and economic pressure on Nagorno-Karabakh in an attempt to assert its own control of the region. These continued clashes over Nagorno-Karabakh highlight the complexity of the geopolitics of the region and the challenges of resolving a long-standing territorial dispute. Although both Armenia and Azerbaijan have made efforts to resolve the situation, there is currently no sign of a permanent resolution to the conflict. Until both sides can agree to a lasting arrangement, Nagorno-Karabakh will remain a source of tension, and the clashes over its control will continue.