Role of Regional cum International Organisations and Shadow Party Involvements in the Nagorno-Karabakh Geopolitical Conflict

This study investigates the complex dynamics of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict – a significant territorial conflict that highlights the interplay of historical grievances, ethnic identities, and geopolitical interests. The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict primarily involves Armenia and Azerbaijan, rooted in deep ethnic tensions and historical claims to the land. Largely inhabited by ethnic Armenians, the region has been a flashpoint since the dissolution of the Soviet Union, leading to violent confrontations and a prolonged struggle for territorial control. The ethnic nationalism driving this conflict complicates resolution efforts, as both sides view the territory as integral to their national identities. External actors, particularly regional powers such as Russia and Turkey, significantly influence the trajectory of the conflict, often exacerbating tensions while attempting to mediate peace. The paper relies heavily on secondary data sources for analysis and interpretation to answer the research questions of the paper. Heartland Theory is adopted to elucidate the problem. This paper highlights roles of such organisations and consequences of involvements of third party in the geopolitical conflict. Effective conflict resolution requires not only legal and diplomatic interventions but also an understanding of the historical and cultural contexts that underpin these territorial disputes. Russia’s historical ties to Armenia and Turkey’s support for Azerbaijan illustrate how external interests can hinder progress. Ultimately, this research contributes to a nuanced understanding of territorial conflicts, illustrating the interplay of local, national, and international dynamics.