Introduction -- The political evolution of Central Asia and South Caucasus: Implications for regional security -- Some economic dimensions of security in Central Asia and South Caucasus -- Natural resources and potential conflict in the Caspian Sea region -- Potential for ethnic conflict in the Caspian Sea region -- Potential for ethnic conflict in the Caspian region -- Conflict in Central Asia and South Caucasus: implications of foreign interests and involvement -- Central Asia and South Caucasus as an area of operations: challenges and constraints -- Sources of conflict and paths to U.S. involvement.