THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE SECURITY ARCHITECTURE IN THE SOUTH CAUCASUS IN THE CONTEXT OF NEW GEOPOLITICAL REALITIES AND THE STRATEGIC ROLE OF AZERBAIJAN

This article explores recent geopolitical transformations in the South Caucasus and the reshaping of its security architecture. Following the Soviet Union’s collapse, unresolved conflicts in Abkhazia, South Ossetia, and between Armenia and Azerbaijan weakened regional stability. The 2020 Second Karabakh War restored Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity and revitalized peace efforts. The article analyzes the strategic interests of key actors such as Russia, Turkey, and Iran, with a focus on Azerbaijan’s evolving diplomatic role and its regional initiatives. Particular attention is given to energy and transport corridors, and to programs like the “Great Return” that contribute to long-term peace and integration. The study is based on an analytical-descriptive and comparative approach