ONEPLANET2020: DECLINE OF AN EMPIRE

One of the most startling discoveries during the journey through Georgia, Azerbiajan and Armenia was the evidence of the decline of the soviet system. Countries mainly focused on single or limited economies during soviet times have struggled to rebuild following the dissolution of the system, which often had whole factories manufacturing single parts, which were then shipped to a central assemble places.

Reportedly this was to lessen the impact of any enemy attack on infrastructure, however, it also limited the ability of counties to operate with any independence. 'You can cheek out anytime you like, but you can never leave'. The ruins of many of these plants often lie down the road from the civilisations that have proceeded them, sending us all a poignant message.