Navigating paradoxes: youth civil society amidst shrinking and expanding spaces in Azerbaijan

Youth engagement in civil society is increasingly recognised as a global trend, with authoritarian regimes consolidating power through strategic youth policies. This phenomenon offers a unique perspective on civil society under restrictive governance in post-Soviet Azerbaijan, which has a significant youth population. Since the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Azerbaijan’s regime has reinforced its control, and the spillover from the Arab Spring has intensified repressive policies against opposition movements. This research examines how youth civil society organisations in Azerbaijan navigate the challenges of state repression and external funding dynamics. It employs a theoretical frame­work categorising civil society into three types: claims-making non-governmental organisations (NGOs), non-profit service providers, and regime-loyal NGOs. The study includes in-depth interviews with members of youth NGOs, alongside perspectives from international organisations, academics, and state institutions. The findings reveal a dual landscape: while some groups struggle under restrictive legal frameworks and seek alternative pathways, others align with the state for support. This study enhances understanding of civil society’s adaptability and resilience in authoritarian contexts, providing insights into how youth organisations balance survival and engagement in restrictive political environments.