Posts From Leon Aslanov
The dangers of Europe’s failure to defend democracy
Europe is increasingly holding back when faced with clear violators of democratic norms, from the far-flung DRC to neighbouring countries like Turkey. The ramifications end up jeopardising Europe’s own security. Earlier
Qatar’s maverick foreign policy: can it survive a new Gulf order?
Qatar’s bold response to recent allegations made by Saudi Arabia is sparking controversy in the region, as it now pushes for an independent foreign policy.
Rouhani, Trump, and Theresa May: Is rapprochement dead?
Rouhani and his reformist allies rode their platform of social moderation and international engagement to crushing victories.
Bankers beware: North Korea is on a hacking spree
North Korea has mounted a series of cyber attacks by taking advantage of outdated financial technology, mainly through the SWIFT network.
The UK and EU face off over Middle Eastern trade
Theresa May’s recent visits to Trump and Erdogan are under discussion as negotiations and trade deals make the reality of Brexit felt all the more strongly.
Armenia, Georgia, Azerbaijan: future EU members?
The European Union has eyed the South Caucasus for the past two decades. After successful expansion to parts of Eastern Europe, GRI asks: could the South Caucasus could be next?
Turkey and current climate of the HDP
On 4 November 2016, two leaders of the People’s Democratic Party (HDP) were arrested. This development is part of a downward spiral in the overall political climate of Turkey, especially
Can Armenia’s new defence minister reset the country’s course?
On 3 October 2016, the Armenian President, Serzh Sargsyan, implemented a number of changes in a cabinet reshuffle, which saw the appointment of a new defence minister, Vigen Sargsyan. Discussions
Azerbaijan’s constitutional referendum: Entrenchment of the Aliyev clan
On September 26th, authoritarian Azerbaijan will hold a constitutional referendum over expanding presidential powers. The results are a forgone conclusion.
Iraq: future irredentism or national unity?
Iraq has been experiencing violent sectarian conflict since the toppling of Saddam Hussein in 2003. The causes of these conflictual political and ideological positions in Iraqi society have roots in
