Political Mobilization of Georgian IDPs

Abstract

After the secession from the Soviet Union, Georgia found itself independent, but at war with two of its regions: Abkhazia and South Ossetia. As a consequence of the war between Abkhazia and Georgia nearly all ethnic Georgians residing within the territory of Abkhazia were displaced, and thus went on to become Internally Displaced People (IDPs). Since their displacement nineteen years ago, Georgian authorities have largely pursued a policy of temporary integration, with an ultimate goal of the return of the IDPs to their homes in the breakaway regions. By conducting an explorative case study, based on thirty in-depth interviews with Georgian IDPs and experts on IDP issues, I have researched whether or not the Georgian IDPs have mobilized politically and what form their mobilization has assumed. I have also looked at whether or not their mobilization has been successful, determined by the government’s response to the IDPs demands. I have used theories on Relative Deprivation, Resource Mobilization and Political Opportunity Structure to shed light on my empirical data, and concluded that the Georgian IDPs have mobilized politically. Their mobilization manifests itself in two separate channels: institutionalized organizations and informal groups conducting episodes of contentious politics. The two channels of mobilization utilize different Repertoires of Contention to put forth their claims to the Georgian government, and have both been successful in their efforts. The Georgian government has largely accommodated the claims put forth by the Georgian IDPs, however this can’t be attributed to the efforts of the IDPs alone, the IDPs have an influential ally in the international community present in Georgia, which advocates for IDP interests and puts pressure on the government.