The Geopolitical Ramifications of the Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict (1988–2024): Challenges and Opportunities for Turkey

Abstract

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and territorial dispute between the Armenian and Azerbaijan has implications for international stability. This paper seeks to explore the concepts of neo classical realism and Turkish involvement in the conflict particularly in context of the 2020 conflict. This is done by evaluating the historical and ethnic context as well as the strategic blueprints that shape the power struggle in the South Caucasus. Turkey’s policies in this context are viewed in broader terms to understand their geopolitical objectives. Turkey’s support for the Azerbaijan government is viewed as an attempt to achieve greater Turkic unity in that region and strengthen its foothold in the region. However, this unity greatly complicated foreign relations with races like Russia, the European Union and other members of the Eurasian Economic Union, presenting the risk of destabilization. The paper comprehensively and meticulously examines the rationale adopted by Turkey in Kashatagh and Naraku, coined in xenophobic fervor and enhancing its right of ascription against Armenia. The results emanated from this research portray Turkey’s interventions in Nagorno-Karabakh as a potentially influential regional pivot alongside the long extending issues in its political standing.