Nation-Building Processes in the Republics of the South Caucasus

After the collapse of the USSR, an intensive process of nation-building began in the states that emerged in the post-Soviet space. One of the key factors influencing nation-building policies in the post-Soviet space is that most peoples in the region either had no prior experience of independent statehood or had lost it several centuries ago. After gaining independence, these states faced the challenge of reconciling narrow ethno-national interests with the ambitions of civic-state development. In the case of Azerbaijan, the primary issue was constructing a common national civic identity amidst ethnic and religious diversity.
Another factor influencing nation-building policies in the post-Soviet space is how different peoples perceive the Soviet period of their history. In many cases, a "postcolonial syndrome" emerges, where the Soviet era is viewed as a period of colonization. Consequently, identity politics is built in opposition to this period. Since the USSR is often perceived as a Russian project, distancing from the Soviet past frequently translates into distancing from or even opposing Russia. For many post-Soviet states, distancing from Russia manifests as a shift toward pro-Western policies, which is expressed in aspirations to "return to Europe." The most striking example of this policy in the South Caucasus is Georgia’s position. In Armenia, where the importance of strategic partnership with Russia was acknowledged, particularly in the field of security, the position was initially more moderate. However, after the 44-day war in 2020 and the subsequent exodus of the Armenian population from Karabakh, a trend of alienation from Russia has also emerged. Azerbaijan, on the other hand, maintains a more balanced position, openly declaring its neutrality. At the same time, Azerbaijan actively cooperates with Turkey, emphasizing its Turkic identity, while also lobbying its interests within Islamic organizations. Despite this, it continues to present itself as a fully secular state.
Additionally, nation-building processes in the region are influenced by the presence of interethnic conflicts. For example, a key tool in Azerbaijan’s identity politics is the conflict with Armenia over Nagorno-Karabakh. More specifically, it is the demonization of Armenians as the "Other," against whom Azerbaijani society is consolidated.