Implementation of State Governance in the Liberated Territories as One of the Manifestations of Azerbaijani Constitutionalism

Abstract

The reintegration of liberated territories into state governance poses a significant challenge for post-conflict reconstruction. This study examines how Azerbaijan reaffirms its constitutional principles—particularly sovereignty and territorial integrity—while working to establish effective municipal self-governance and economic decentralisation in its recently liberated regions. Using a qualitative research design, the analysis incorporates a systematic literature review and comparative case studies from post-conflict areas such as Bosnia, Kosovo, and Myanmar. This mixed-method approach facilitated a thorough evaluation of the interplay between centralised administrative control exercised through special presidential representatives and the emerging demands for local autonomy. The findings indicate that Azerbaijan’s centralised strategy, while effectively restoring state authority, has hindered the development of a sustainable municipal governance system. Issues with financial decentralisation persist, restricting local governments' economic recovery and full operational autonomy. Additionally, the study points out that excessive centralisation could heighten ethnic tensions, underscoring the urgency for a gradual move towards inclusive governance models. The evidence indicates that empowering municipalities incrementally and enhancing fiscal independence is essential for achieving long-term stability and socio-economic integration. Balancing central control and progressive decentralisation is vital for translating constitutional directives into practical, enduring governance structures in post-conflict contexts.