Azerbaijan in the Late 1980s – Early 1990s

In the late 1980s, the USSR entered a crisis that led to the collapse of the state. For Azerbaijan, this turning point marked the formation of a new statehood amid war, mass protests, and migrations.

The escalation of ethnic conflict in Sumgait and Karabakh, “Black January” of 1990, the use of oil revenues, and the achievement of independence became pivotal events in shaping the modern history of Azerbaijan.

At the meeting we will discuss:
● Political and social processes in Azerbaijan during the collapse of the USSR.
● The Karabakh conflict and its impact on domestic politics.
● The role of Baku in regional geopolitics.
● How new identity and statehood were formed.

We will create a historical overview from chronicles and memoirs and hold a discussion on whether the conflict could have been avoided.

Speakers: historian-journalist Vladimir Lifshits and former Leningrad Council deputy, historian Vitaly Skoybeda.