Oil-rich Azerbaijan has redefined itself over the past two decades from a struggling newly independent state to a major regional energy player. It has also used its resources to rebuild its army, which is seen as a government priority as the country grapples with the breakaway territory of Nagorno-Karabakh.

Despite its wealth and increased influence in the wider region, poverty and corruption continue to overshadow the country's development. A government crackdown on human rights advocates and journalists has raised concern that Azerbaijan's embryonic democracy is under threat.