Volume I Perceptions Jun - Aug 1996

The Summer issue of our journal consists of 8 articles. David Nissman highlights Russia's historical and contemporary strategies in the Transcaucasus region, focusing on its efforts to maintain influence and secure its borders. He discusses Russia's long-standing interest in the region, dating back to the expansionist policies of the Russian Empire. Turan Moralı explains the challenges and limitations faced by e European Security and Defence Identity (ESDI), especially the exclusion of certain European NATO allies, notably Turkey, from full participation in defense arrangements. He argues for greater flexibility and inclusivity in ESDI, emphasizing the importance of Turkey's involvement and advocating for full Western European Union (WEU) membership for all European NATO allies without discrimination. Sami Kohen explains the importance of addressing issues such as terrorism and water scarcity alongside efforts to resolve the Israeli-Arab conflict. Furthermore, the author highlights Turkey's unique position as a country straddling the Middle East, Europe, and the Mediterranean, which enables it to recognize and address these broader issues. Paul Henze examines Russia's historical expansion into the Caucasus, its struggles to control the region, and its interference in the affairs of Transcaucasia. Boutros Bouthros-Ghali argues that the world is currently at a critical juncture, presenting both opportunities and dangers. He suggests that the UN is underutilized and urges institutions like the  Centre for Strategic Research to provide essential scholarship and practical advice to help leverage the UN's potential effectively during this pivotal moment in human history. Nezihi Çakar investigates the crucial role of Türkiye in global affairs due to its strategic location and historical significance. He discusses Türkiye’s aspirations for integration with Europe, its involvement in regional conflicts, such as in the Balkans and the Middle East, and its stance on issues like terrorism and national security. John Borawski provides information on NATO enlargement, particularly in the context of Central Europe. He states that NATO membership remains the most viable option for Central European countries and suggests ways to address Russian concerns and enhance cooperation between NATO and Russia, such as through peacekeeping missions under OSCE authority and arms control agreements. Sabit Baiırov focuses on energy politics and he introduces to the reader some of the major events in Azerbaijan's oil industry and to what is going on in this country rich in mineral resources.