Publication

This issue discusses some of the possible implications of the 2012 Eurovision song contest and the 2014 Sochi Olympic Games for the South Caucasus. The first article argues that the Eurovision song contest will focus international attention on Azerbaijan and pose numerous logistical and infrastructure challenges for the government; civil society groups hope to use the opportunity to press for liberalization, however, the authorities show no sign of giving to such pressure. The second article argues that the 2014 Sochi Olympic Games in Russia likewise pose both opportunities and challenges for neighboring Georgia and the entire Caucasus.