E-KARABAKH AND BEYOND: REVEALING THE DIGITAL LANDSCAPES IN AZERBAIJAN'S LIBERATED TERRITORIES

Abstract

Following the second Karabakh War in 2020, Azerbaijan liberated its territories from 30 years of long-brewing Armenian occupation, which today are considered the potential economic and geopolitical landscapes for not only the socio- economic development of the country but to involve foreign investments and projects to these recovered areas. The Karabakh War of 2020 caused a change in the balance of power and status quo in the South Caucasus region as Azerbaijan in recent times started the rehabilitation and reconstruction processes, the placement of IDPs, involvement of investments, launch of tender projects, etc. to provide the socio-economic development of Karabakh region as a future E-Karabakh. The core objective of the paper is to ensure scientific insights and recommendations for the transition of the conventional Karabakh region to the digitalized so-called E-Karabakh region to enhance the economic development of the region. The authors' focus primarily delves into aspects including the advancement of a green economy and green growth policy, agriculture, and fostering a clean ecological environment in Karabakh. The article also analyzes the enhancement of ICT-based infrastructure, the integration of high digital technologies, and the potential emergence of Karabakh as a prominent hub for technology and innovation in the South Caucasus region. The paper aims to fill a gap in the existing literature by presenting valuable insights for government officials, decision-makers, and experts in this field, seeking to be a substantial scientific paper, offering policy-based information to aid in making informed and rational decisions.