Nagorno-Karabakh

Kaukasus

Nagorno-Karabakh is a landlocked region in the South Caucasus, within the mountainous range of Karabakh. It is recognized internationally as part of Azerbaijan, but most of it is governed by the Republic of Artsakh, a de facto independent state with an Armenian ethnic majority. The region has been a subject of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia, leading to the First Nagorno-Karabakh War in the late 20th century and the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh War, with periods of skirmishes and uneasy ceasefires in between.

History

The history of Nagorno-Karabakh can be traced back to antiquity, with its control passing through various empires and dynasties over the centuries, including the Persians, Romans, and Ottomans. In the early 20th century, following the collapse of the Russian Empire, Nagorno-Karabakh became a point of contention between the newly established nations of Armenia and Azerbaijan. The Soviet Union's annexation of the region and its decision to make Nagorno-Karabakh an autonomous oblast within Azerbaijan did not resolve the ethnic and territorial disputes. The conflict escalated as the Soviet Union began to collapse, leading to the First Nagorno-Karabakh War in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Geography

Nagorno-Karabakh is characterized by its mountainous terrain, which has played a significant role in its history and culture. The region is rich in natural resources, including forests, minerals, and arable land, contributing to its economic potential. However, the ongoing conflict has hindered economic development and environmental conservation efforts.

Demographics

Before the conflict, Nagorno-Karabakh was home to a mix of Armenian and Azerbaijani communities. However, the majority of Azerbaijanis have fled or been displaced due to the conflict, leading to a predominantly Armenian population in the region. The demographic changes have been a source of tension and have complicated efforts to resolve the conflict.

Culture

The culture of Nagorno-Karabakh is heavily influenced by its Armenian majority, with Armenian being the predominant language and Christianity the main religion. The region is known for its historical sites, including ancient monasteries and churches, which reflect its rich cultural heritage.

Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict remains one of the most intractable disputes in the post-Soviet space. Efforts by international mediators, including the Minsk Group co-chaired by Russia, France, and the United States, have so far failed to produce a lasting resolution. The conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people.

Current Situation

The 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh War marked a significant change in the conflict, with Azerbaijan recapturing large parts of the region. Despite a Russia-brokered ceasefire agreement, tensions and sporadic violence continue, with both sides accusing each other of ceasefire violations. The future of Nagorno-Karabakh remains uncertain, with ongoing diplomatic efforts and international involvement trying to find a peaceful solution.