Polarization threat to democratization in Azerbaijan

World politics has always been divided according to different ideologies that have caused politically active groups to be polarized. However deep-seated polarization in Azerbaijan is so bad that it has led to a division in society. It is quite obvious that there is a dichotomy in Azerbaijani society that is becoming increasingly dangerous.

More are claiming that Azerbaijanis as a nation are isolated and have become so dispirited that they are not participating in politics -- an idea that I would say is totally inaccurate and does not represent what is happening on the ground. The rise of partisan politics in Azerbaijan has pushed the public to become seriously involved in politics.

Given the fact that parties are making extensive efforts to put out party messages, people affiliated with parties have been inundated with political messages and are thus becoming politicized. Consequently, political tension and antagonism are increasing.

In the days before the election, for example, people were only talking about the election for the president, parties, candidates and the anticipated results. These debates were not only heated on the street, but they were also trending on social media, including Twitter and Facebook -- the main platforms where the presidential election became the most discussed issue with a huge divergence of views.

Debates reached boiling point on election day, when representatives and supporters of both from the ruling New Azerbaijan Party and the coalition of the opposition parties called the National Council (Milli Şura) were saber-rattling on social media. While activists from the opposition were out crying foul, pro-government officials and representatives kept trying to refute these claims.

The deep polarization of Azerbaijani society with respect to political preferences became best illustrated last weekend, when two bright members of Azerbaijani youth said in a discussion that the political situation in the country is so complicated that not taking sides and being neutral is impossible, as “one should take a stand either on this or another side, otherwise it is ridiculous and absurd.”

And not taking a side in this deeply polarized environment is also risky not only because you are automatically becoming part of rough political debates, but also because it leads you to feel uneasy and uncomfortable in one circle when you cannot criticize another group and speak out for yourself and your ideas.

In a nutshell, the growing polarization that continues to exacerbate the division of Azerbaijani society is undoubtedly a pivotal element that impedes Azerbaijan from pushing for democratization and it is that fact that might bring Azerbaijan's call for democracy into question.