Formal-Informal Relations in Azerbaijan

Abstract

In the neopatrimonial context, formal institutions cohabit the governance space with informal institutions. Azerbaijan is a good example of how formal institutions such as referendums, elections and the judiciary are used as window dressing behind which patrimonial relationships thrive and proliferate. While written rules act as a façade, they perform useful functions for the regime, allowing the ruler to create the appearance of legality and maintain autocratic control of the system. However, the patrimonial informality (or informalities) that underpin the neopatrimonial system and govern actual behaviour ultimately undermine the formal 'institutions as constraints' basis, which is necessary for democracy and the impartial rule of law to take root.