One conflict, different meanings: a comparative analysis of Armenian and Azerbaijani narratives of victory in Nagorno-Karabakh wars

Erik Davtyan

Small Wars and Insurgencies, 2025, vol. 36, issue 1, 160-184

Abstract: This article comparatively examines the Armenian and Azerbaijani narratives of victory in the First and Second Karabakh Wars, respectively. Drawing on the speeches, addresses and statements by the Armenian and Azerbaijani leadership, it unpacks what meaning the two countries ascribed to their victories. Azerbaijan has developed a complex narrative which includes the definition of several enemies, personalization and extensive symbolization of the victory along with an insulting, demonizing and dehumanizing language in regardto Armenia(ns), the Armenian leadership and army, as well as an assertive and uncompromising attitude towards conflict resolution and the future of Armenia–Azerbaijan relations. Lacking any of these elements, the Armenian narrative has been quite simple, stressing the need of a compromise-based, peaceful resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and describing the victory as existentially important and a watershed development in Armenia’s history.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1080/09592318.2024.2408704

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