05/01/2026
ARPA Institute Book Talk
"Anatomy of Peacemaking: Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict &Missed Opportunities"
Author: Dr. Hrair Balian.
Discussant: Dr. David AkopyanMay 2, 2026, at 11:00 AM PDT
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/8843948112?omn=85216147677
Abstract: Anatomy of Peacemaking: Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict &Missed Opportunities, published in hardcover print and e-book formats(Feb 2026, Palgrave Macmillan). The book examines the thirty-plus yearsof Nagorno-Karabakh negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan andtraces the evolution of the multilateral Minsk Group (OSCE) mediationeffort through the optimistic period in international relations in the 1990suntil the demise of the rules based international order. The book identifies nineprincipal causes for the eventual collapse of the negotiations and its impact on thepacific resolution of conflicts writ large. The book is available online through Amazonand other distributors. The high price of the book is set by the publisher. Balian haspledged to donate any modest author proceeds received to a scholarship fund set upat the American University of Armenia for the benefit of students displaced fromNagorno-Karabakh.Dr. Hrair Balian Peacebuilding practitioner since 1990. Author, Anatomyof Peacemaking: Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict & Missed Opportunities,March 2026, Palgrave Macmillan. Served in leadership positions at theUN, OSCE & NGOs (International Crisis Group, Geneva Center forSecurity Policy, Carter Center). Worked on conflict transformation,elections & human rights in the Balkans, Eastern Europe, North & South Caucasus,Central Asia, Middle East & Africa. Published articles. Adjunct Professor (2008-2018),conflict resolution, negotiations & mediation, Emory University, School of Law. JurisDoctor (1985), Doctor of Laws (Honoris Causa - 2009).David Akopyan Ph.D. in physics, studied complex systems, after 27 yearsworked for the UN in 15 countries across many regions. Last 10 years ofhis UN career spent in Afghanistan, Somalia and Syria, worst crisis affectedcountries, holding leadership positions as UN Development Program Deputy Director,Country Director and Resident Representative. He is also AUA (America Universityof Armenia), 2019 distinguished alumnus. Early 2021 David retired from the UN andjoined the Artsakh Government as the Principal advisor to State Minister helping tocoordinate humanitarian and development assistance. He is also an ex officio advisorto the President of Armenia, the Chair of the Board of Trustees of reArmeniafoundation, member of APRI (Applied Policy Research Institute/AGBU) Board ofdirectors and the Insurance Foundation of servicemen.
