A Comparative Analysis of Velvet Revolutions Based on Six Post- Soviet Republics

A Comparative Analysis of Velvet Revolutions


Based on Six Post- Soviet Republics


Dr. Ebrahim Hajiani


Mehdi Heidari


Dealing with the concept of velvet revolutions in comparison with similar events, the present article tackles the whys and wherefores of the occurrence of velvet revolutions with regard to the six post-Soviet republics. Benefiting from the theoretical literature available, the article seeks to respond to the question in three aspects: roots, the condition of the opposition, and the condition of the government.


The comparative method (convergence and divergence both) is applied in the study. We have studied Georgia, Ukraine, and Kirghizistan applying convergence method. However, divergence method is applied in case of Russia, Uzbekistan, and Azerbaijan.


The study indicated that besides the determining role of foreign factor, such factors as participation of opposition representatives in power, enhancement of educational level, weak solidarity of police forces with the state, and lack of dependence of government economy on energy exports have also been the essential requirements of velvet revolutions.