ABSTRACT
This Chapter examines the basic principles as the OSCE Minsk Group (MG) sought a consensus document to resolve the conflict. It examines all the peace initiatives and summits from 2007 to 2012 and explains in detail the obstacles that prevented a final negotiated settlement. Despite relentless efforts by the Co-Chairs both the Armenian and Azerbaijani Presidents appeared unyielding and military rhetoric dominated. Even Russian direct involvement did little to spur the talks. Once again a new opportunity for peace was lost because the issues of security, status, withdrawal and the return of the refugees to their homes became major obstacles mainly because of uncertainty, lack of trust and political will between the parties. The chapter explores the impact of the Georgian-Russian war in 2008 and the Armenian-Turkish rapprochement on the Karabakh conflict. Still, the revised Madrid Principles will be examined as another attempt in order to satisfy the demands of both sides.
