The International Risk Podcast

Episode 229: Armenia: Between Russia and The West and the Complicated Dynamics of Peace with Azerbaijan with Dr. Vahram Ter-Matevosyan

Season 5 Episode 229

In this episode of the International Risk Podcast, we turn our focus to the South Caucasus, where Armenia stands at a critical geopolitical juncture. Our guest is Dr. Vahram Ter-Matevosyan, Associate Professor of Political Science and International Affairs at the American University of Armenia and a leading voice on regional security and Armenian foreign policy.

Dr. Ter-Matevosyan offers a compelling analysis of Armenia’s post-2020 political landscape, the complexities of its relationship with Azerbaijan, and the challenges of negotiating peace amid uncertainty. We explore how domestic expectations, historical narratives, and external pressures intersect in shaping Armenia’s strategic choices.

What are the risks of a fragile peace process? How are regional and global actors influencing the outcome? And what does the future hold for a country navigating between tradition, reform, and realpolitik?

Dr. Vahram Ter-Matevosyan is an Associate Professor of Political Science and International Affairs at the American University of Armenia and a leading scholar on Turkish foreign policy, regional security, and post-Soviet politics. He has advised government agencies, published extensively on nationalism and regional dynamics, and brings deep, evidence-based analysis to some of the most pressing questions about Armenia’s place in an increasingly multipolar world.

The International Risk Podcast is a must-listen for senior executives, board members, and risk advisors who need more than headlines. Each week, Dominic Bowen cuts through the noise to bring you unfiltered insights on emerging risks, geopolitics, international relations flashpoints, boardroom blind spots, and strategic opportunities. Hosted by Dominic Bowen, Head of Strategic Advisory at one of Europe's top risk consulting firms, The International Risk Podcast brings together global experts to share insights and actionable strategies from the people who have been there, done it, and shaped outcomes at the highest levels.

Dominic's 25 years of experience managing complex operations in high-risk environments, combined with his role as a public speaker and university lecturer, make him uniquely positioned to guide these conversations. From conflict zones to corporate boardrooms, he explores the risks shaping our world and how organisations can navigate them. Whether he is speaking with intelligence operatives, CEOs, political advisors, or analysts, Dominic helps leaders gain competitive advantage through these conversations.

The International Risk Podcast – Reducing risk by increasing knowledge.

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