Delves into the historical, political, and geopolitical background of Turkey's decline. Providing a comprehensive portrait of the Turkish state's turmoil, Aras creates a blueprint for the ways in which much-needed reforms can break vicious cycles of political polarization, rising authoritarianism, and weak state institutions.
The geopolitical landscape of the Caspian Sea basin transformed dramatically after the Soviet Union's collapse, sparking intense competition among nations like Russia, Turkey, Iran, Japan, and the United States for access to its rich energy resources. This struggle for Caspian oil has emerged as a significant post-Cold War issue, intertwining economic ambitions with political and military strategies, all amid a backdrop of ethnic tensions and historical conflicts in the region.
The book delves into the geopolitical dynamics of the Caucasus region, highlighting the emergence of two opposing blocs formed by newly independent states. It examines the impact of the Soviet Union's dissolution and the end of the Cold War on regional alliances, leading to intensified political, military, and economic ties. The competition for influence and access to the Caspian Sea's energy resources is a central theme, alongside the cooperation among various actors on non-energy issues in pursuit of financial gains.