Authors

Discussion

This paper analyses how Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) providing social services in the borderland created by the de facto border separating Abkhazia and the Samegrelo region, navigate the (geo)political constrains they face. Previous research documented the impact of (geo)political dynamics and the influence of two major regional players: the European Union and Russia. However, social consequences of de facto borders and in particular the impact on the functioning of CSOs in the complex landscape of a de facto borderland, has never been investigated. Relying on in-situ observations, (online) interviews and visual ethnography, this paper delves into three types of services were the impact of the de facto border is remarkable: support for victims of domestic violence, support for IDPs and elderly care. In some cases, people are crossing the de facto border to access these services, as shelter for victims of domestic violence, retirement homes, or IDP allowances are not provided in Abkhazia. CSOs assisting these beneficiaries  try to work across the de facto border via partner organisations based in Abkhazia. In order to do so, they keep low profile not to compromise the safety of the beneficiaries and raise funds not only from international donors and organisation, but also from local authorities and private individuals.