Heydar Aliyev: The Architect of State and Nation-Builder

The first section of the chapter summarizes Aliyev’s biographical details and his orientation of the worldview, along with his rise to power. The remaining section provides an overview of the key strategies Aliyev deployed in his efforts of nation- and institution-building. This chapter examines the historical contexts that compelled Aliyev to carry forward his certain idea of what Azerbaijan should become in its formative years as the Second Republic of Azerbaijan. This chapter analyzes the process of state and nation-building under the leadership of Aliyev. Aliyev’s project of rehabilitation, reconstruction, and national strength had five broad outcomes. (1) establishing law and order by eliminating rogue elements within the security establishment; (2) drafting a new constitution to enhance the power of the president at the expense of the legislative branch and establishing new institutions; (3) providing a relatively durable ceasefire, not a peace, with Armenia by freezing the conflict; (4) attracting international investment to extract Azerbaijani oil/gas and carry over Turkey to the international market; and (5) pursuing non-confrontational and good neighborly relations with surrounding countries.