Georgia's State Policy for IDP Integration in the View of IDPs

Abstract

This paper examines the challenges and progress in the integration of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Georgia following conflicts in Abkhazia and Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia since the 1990s. These conflicts resulted in large-scale displacement, with IDPs facing significant obstacles, including poor living conditions, stigmatisation, and lack of socio-economic support. The Georgian state initially focused on the right of return over integration, leading to limited support for IDPs' integration into host communities. However, in 2007, a new state strategy shifted towards providing housing, improving socio-economic conditions and implementing long-term integration policies. Based on interviews and a focus group with IDPs and experts, findings suggest that while IDPs today enjoy greater social acceptance and stability than in years past, much of this progress can be attributed to individual resilience rather than the effectiveness of state policies. Persistent issues include incompletely implemented housing policies and insufficient communication regarding available social services, highlighting areas for improvement in fostering comprehensive IDP integration.