(Tartu Ülikool, 2019) Bernardi, Rossana; Darchiashvili, David, juhendaja; Florea, Adrian, juhendaja; Tartu Ülikool. Sotsiaalteaduste valdkond; Tartu Ülikool. Johan Skytte poliitikauuringute instituut
The present research seeks to uncover the dynamics between forms of collective
memory and current reconciliation processes between Georgia and the de facto state of
Abkhazia. Based on assumptions derived from theoretical perspectives on dynamics of
memory in relation to reconciliation after violent conflict, this thesis argues that reconciliation
can be both negatively and positively affected by collective memory. The data utilized to
address the topic was collected through interviews with civil society activists who are working
on initiatives that deal with the legacy of painful memories in Georgia and Abkhazia. Through
thematic analysis, it was confirmed that collective memory poses obstacles to reconciliation,
in terms of mutually-exclusive narratives that discourage dialogue and the change of
perceptions of conflicting parts. At the same time, various formats of dialogue and
reconciliation taking place in Abkhazia and Georgia were described and assessed in terms of
their potential in encouraging reconciliation.
