The Do-or-Die Dilemma Facing Post-Soviet De Facto States

Date

2018

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

PONARS Eurasia

Abstract

This memo discusses the “do or die” dilemma of post-Soviet de facto states. Our examination looks in to patron-client relations that are highly unequal and asymmetric in terms of resources and capabilities: Russia vis-à-vis Abkhazia, South Ossetia, and Transnistria, and Armenia vis-à-vis Nagorno-Karabakh. While relying entirely on a militarily and economically resourceful external patron is often seen as the only viable option, de facto states may be risking the loss of their “independence.” Hence their “do or die” dilemma that structures many of their policies.

Description

Keywords

de facto states, patron-client relations, de facto state foreign policy, policy memo, de facto riigid, patrooni-kliendi suhted, de facto riigi välispoliitika, poliitikamemo

Citation