Post-Soviet Conflicts and Eurasian Geopolitics

The dissolution of the Soviet Union left a complex legacy of disputed borders, diverse ethnic identities, and regional tensions that continue to shape global politics. Understanding these dynamics is essential for making sense of modern international relations and ongoing security challenges in Eurasia. This text-based course guides you through the foundational history, policy decisions, and political realities of the region, helping you trace how past administrative lines became today's geopolitical flashpoints. What you'll learn: - Understand the historical origins of Soviet nationalities policy and how it shaped internal borders. - Analyze the key drivers behind major ethnic and territorial conflicts in the Caucasus, Central Asia, and Eastern Europe. - Examine the geopolitical shifts following the dissolution of the USSR and their impact on sovereign statehood. - Explore the role of regional security organizations and external powers in managing or exacerbating local tensions. - Apply basic geopolitical analysis frameworks to interpret ongoing developments and current events in the region. You will begin by learning core terminology, historical contexts, and foundational concepts of ethnic policy before moving on to detailed regional case studies and modern geopolitical trends. This course is designed for beginners, students of history or international relations, and anyone curious about global affairs, with no prior background required. Start reading today to build a solid foundation in Eurasian geopolitics.