‍Central Asia and The Caucasus Journal

Abstract The Karabakh conflict has not been resolved since two decades ago the current process indicates its future in the aura of ambiguity. According to the results of this research, the loss of an integrated approach in international mediation efforts is the main obstacle to resolve Nagorno-Karabakh crisis. This is a function of the strategic interests and different geopolitical understanding of the actors interested in international mediation, their different vision to the crisis, biased behavior of mediators and other complex conditions of international mediation in the Nagorno-Karabakh crisis. In the meantime, a close and comprehensive study of the international mediation experience in the context of the United Nations and OSCE in the Nagorno-Karabakh show that some other goals are pursued beyond humanitarian purposes in this process. In this regard, by using the crisis management in the context of mediation mechanism as a political instrument, the main actors (Russia, the USA and France) in this international mediation are trying not only to strengthen their influence in the South Caucasus, but also to contain the increasing influence of their competitors.

Abstract Nagorno-Karabakh is an autonomous region situated in the vicinity of Armenia borders and the west of AzerbaijanRepublic. Although this region is controlled by Armenians, neither Armenia nor any other country in the world recognize KarabakhRepublic. The region has been the scene of conflict between two republics of Azerbaijan and Armenia since their independence. The aim of this article is to analyze the dimensions and levels of intervention in Nagorno-Karabakh conflict in accordance with Geopolitical Crisis concept and its fundamentals.  As to the findings of the research, non-adaptation of geographical borders with ethnic, religious and cultural borders in Caucasus region; communist leaders' political approach to Soviet republics and ethnic groups; strong positions of the conflict parties to each other; the factor of foreign actors competition; the balance of power relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan Republic and at least Armenian's negative historical mentality and fear of blockade, are the most important factors intensifying Karabakh crisis.