AZERBAIJANI WOMEN IN THE FIRST 20 YEARS OF POST-SOVIET TRANSITION PERIOD

The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 marked a historical moment for the fifteen former Soviet republics, including Azerbaijan, as they embarked on a journey of nation-building and identity formation. Post-Soviet Azerbaijan experienced a revival of pre-Soviet traditions, particularly in the realm of Islam, alongside a redefinition of national identity spearheaded by predominantly nationalist male elites. This process was intricately linked to the changing role of women in Azerbaijani society. While the Soviet era had seen efforts to empower women, including advancements in education and legal rights, the dissolution of the Union brought forth a renewed emphasis on Islam and traditional gender roles. This study analyzes the position of women in post-Soviet Azerbaijan, and underlines that it reveals a complex interplay of cultural, religious, and economic factors. It is aimed to show that Azerbaijani women navigate a unique path, blending secularism with Islamic values while adapting to changing socio-economic realities. The study is important because it emphasizes that while Azerbaijan grapples with the legacy of Soviet rule and navigates the challenges of transition, the evolving role of women emerges as a key determinant of future societal dynamics. Their experiences offer insights not only into the Azerbaijani context but also into broader discussions of gender, religion, and nation-building across former Soviet republics, particularly those with Muslim populations.