Oil, Geopolitics, and Economic Growth in Azerbaijan

The Republic of Azerbaijan, like most newly independent states, must establish its own goals and policies. One of the primary goals of Azerbaijan is achieving economic growth. Experts estimate that the Azeri sector of the Caspian Sea contains approximately three billion barrels of proven oil reserves. Azerbaijan has been extremely successful in attracting foreign investment in its oil sector. There are currently five contracts signed between the government of Azerbaijan and consortiums of international oil companies for development of this oil, and more are under negotiation. If these contracts are brought to fruition, Azerbaijan could reemerge as a major oil producer in the next century, dramatically increase revenue for the country, and achieve economic growth. However, Azerbaijan has a high level of political risk that threatens the achievement of economic growth. Economic growth cannot be assumed to follow the increase in political risk and lower Gross National Product per capita. The relationship between geography and foreign relations in the region creates geopolitical risk that threatens development of Azeri oil resources. Much of this risk stems from interference by foreign governments, especially Russia, Iran, and Turkey. Geopolitical issues will limit the economic growth potential otherwise available to Azerbaijan because of its oil resources.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science in Geospatial Sciences

Level thesis:degree_level

Masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Geography, Geology, and Planning

Year

1997

Author dc:creator

• Croissant, Cynthia Marie

Contributors dc:contributor

• Burl Self Jr.

• Earth Sciences

Statement dc:rights

• © Cynthia Marie Croissant

Repository record dc:identifier

https://bearworks.missouristate.edu/theses/787

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:bearworks.missouristate.edu:theses-1788