Azerbaijan's October 2008 Presidential Election: Outcome and Implications
Abstract
After achieving independence in 1991, Azerbaijan was convulsed by secessionism by its Nagorno Karabakh (NK) region, civil disorder, and a steep economic decline. In recent years, however, the exploitation of oil and natural gas resources has contributed to a rapidly growing economy, despite rising inflation and reported corruption. Progress in democratization has been slow, according to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and other observers, who have judged that neither presidential elections nor legislative races have yet been "free and fair." The United States and others in the international community have supported democratization efforts in Azerbaijan. At the same time, U.S. interests have been served by Azerbaijan's support for the war on terrorism and its oil and gas exports to Western markets.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 27, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA489259
Entities
People
- Jim Nichol
Organizations
- Library of Congress