Abkhazia

Abkhazia is a disputed territory located on the eastern coast of the Black Sea. It declared independence from Georgia following the dissolution of the Soviet Union and a subsequent war in 1992-1993. It functions as a de facto independent republic, officially named the Republic of Abkhazia. However, the vast majority of the international community, including the United Nations, recognizes Abkhazia as an autonomous republic legally part of Georgia. Its independence is currently recognized by Russia, Venezuela, Nicaragua, Nauru, and Syria. Georgia considers Abkhazia to be territory occupied by Russia.

Geographical Location

Abkhazia occupies a relatively small area (approximately 8,660 square kilometers or 3,340 sq mi) on the southeastern littoral of the Black Sea.

• Borders: It is bordered by the Russian Federation (specifically the Krasnodar Krai) to the north and northwest along the crest of the Greater Caucasus mountains, and by the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region of Georgia proper to the east and southeast along the Enguri River.
• Terrain: The landscape is diverse, ranging from coastal lowlands along the Black Sea to the high peaks of the Caucasus mountains in the north. Approximately 75% of its territory is mountainous.
• Climate: The coastal region enjoys a humid subtropical climate, conducive to agriculture, particularly citrus fruits, tea, and tobacco. Higher elevations experience colder, alpine climates.
• Key Features: Notable features include Lake Ritsa, a deep mountain lake, and the New Athos Cave system, one of the largest in the world.

History

Abkhazia has a long and complex history:

• Ancient Times: The region was part of the ancient Kingdom of Colchis, known from Greek mythology (the legend of the Golden Fleece). Later, Greek colonies were established along the coast. It subsequently came under Roman and then Byzantine influence.
• Medieval Period: The Kingdom of Abkhazia emerged in the 8th century AD. By the 11th century, it was unified with Georgian kingdoms, becoming an integral part of the unified Kingdom of Georgia during its “Golden Age.” Following the fragmentation of Georgia, an autonomous Principality of Abkhazia existed under nominal Ottoman influence.
• Russian Empire: Abkhazia was annexed by the Russian Empire in stages during the 19th century, formally incorporated in 1864. This period saw significant demographic shifts, including the muhajirstvo (emigration) of many Muslim Abkhaz to the Ottoman Empire.
• Soviet Union: After the Russian Revolution, Abkhazia experienced brief periods of independence and integration into different Soviet structures before becoming the Abkhaz Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic (ASSR) within the Georgian Soviet Socialist Republic in 1931. Ethnic tensions between Abkhaz and Georgians simmered throughout the Soviet period.
• Post-Soviet Conflict: With the impending collapse of the USSR, Abkhazia declared sovereignty in 1990. Tensions escalated, leading to the 1992-1993 war between Abkhaz separatist forces (supported by North Caucasian and Cossack militants and reportedly elements of the Russian military) and Georgian government forces. The war resulted in a de facto Abkhaz victory, the separation of Abkhazia from Georgian control, and the mass displacement (often referred to as ethnic cleansing) of the ethnic Georgian population from the territory. Abkhazia formally declared independence in 1999.
• 2008 War and Recognition: Following the Russo-Georgian War in August 2008, Russia officially recognized Abkhazia’s independence, solidifying its separation from Georgia and increasing Russian influence and military presence.

Population

• Size: Estimating the current population is difficult due to the conflict and lack of internationally recognized censuses. Figures often range around 240,000 – 250,000 inhabitants. This is significantly lower than the pre-war population (over 525,000 in 1989).
• Ethnic Composition: The 1992-1993 war dramatically altered the ethnic makeup. Before the war, ethnic Georgians were the largest group (around 45%), with Abkhaz comprising about 18%. After the conflict and the displacement of over 200,000 Georgians, ethnic Abkhaz became the plurality or majority (estimates vary, often around 50%). Significant populations of Armenians and Russians also reside in Abkhazia. A small number of Georgians (mostly Mingrelians) remain, primarily in the Gali district.
• Languages: Abkhaz is the official state language. Russian is widely spoken and functions as a language of interethnic communication and government administration alongside Abkhaz.
• Religion: The main religions are Orthodox Christianity and Sunni Islam, though many Abkhaz also adhere to traditional Abkhaz religious beliefs.

Politics

• Status: Disputed territory. Operates as a de facto presidential republic but is recognized internationally by only a handful of UN member states. Georgia and most of the world consider it legally part of Georgia under Russian occupation.
• Governance: The de facto government consists of a President (head of state and government) and a unicameral Parliament (the People’s Assembly).
• External Relations: Abkhazia is heavily reliant on Russia for financial, military, and diplomatic support. Its economy and infrastructure are closely linked to Russia. Relations with Georgia remain frozen, characterized by the unresolved conflict status. Travel and communication between Abkhazia and Georgia proper are restricted.
• International Recognition: Limited recognition significantly hampers its international relations, trade, and participation in global organizations.

Administrative Divisions

Abkhazia is divided into seven districts (raions):

1. Gagra district
2. Gudauta district
3. Sukhumi district
4. Gulripshi district
5. Ochamchira district
6. Tkvarcheli district (formed in 1995 from parts of Ochamchira and Gali districts)
7. Gali district

The capital and largest city is Sukhumi (known as Sokhumi in Georgian).