Informal networks as sources of human (in)security in the South Caucasus

Aliyev, H. (2015) Informal networks as sources of human (in)security in the South Caucasus. Global Change, Peace and Security, 27(2), pp. 191-206. (doi: 10.1080/14781158.2015.1019844)

Abstract

In contrast to numerous studies on exogenous mechanisms of human security – such as the provision of human security by international actors – this study examines the role of informal networks in providing ‘freedoms from want’ and ‘freedoms from fear’ to the population. With the primary focus on post-communist South Caucasus (Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia) this article conducts a rigorous examination of informal networks’ critical function as sources of human (in)security since the breakup of the Soviet Union. Based on a combination of open-ended elite (expert) interviews, field observation and closed-ended survey data, this study demonstrates that apart from the informal networks’ crucial role in generating social capital and functioning as indispensable social safety nets, they also exacerbate human insecurity by cementing the traditions of clientelism and corruption that are deeply entrenched in the region.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Aliyev, Dr Huseyn
• Authors: Aliyev, H.
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Social and Political Sciences > Central and East European Studies
• Journal Name: Global Change, Peace and Security
• Publisher: Taylor & Francis
• ISSN: 1478-1158
• ISSN (Online): 1478-1166
• Published Online: 24 March 2015
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2015 Taylor and Francis
• First Published: First published in Global Change, Peace and Security 27(2): 191-206
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the publisher copyright policy