2026 Theses Master's

Dancing Around Fire: Non-Conformity under Digital Authoritarianism in Azerbaijan

Kissin, Ariella

This thesis explores the lived experiences of people on the margins and their relationship to state power and surveillance. Situated within the confines of Azerbaijan’s digital authoritarianism, as well as social and political pressure of conformity, the thesis sheds light on how those who do not conform experience state power. It examines how digital authoritarianism, specifically surveillance, shapes everyday speech, self-censorship, expression, and perceptions of power.

Drawing on semi-structured interviews and a quantitative survey with Azerbaijanis who self-identify as “alternative” within the context of their society, the study analyzes the intersections of norms, discourse, and power. It finds that while surveillance and digital control are normalized aspects of everyday life, non-conforming individuals engage in quiet, strategic knowledge co-production to minimize risk. The study contributes to a growing body of literature on digital controls by showing how visibility and power are unevenly distributed across digital and physical spaces.