Negotiating identities: the effect of Russian in-migration on LGBTQ+ populations in Georgia and Armenia

Abstract

This research explores the effect of Russian in-migration following the invasion of Ukraine on LGBTQ+ populations in Georgia and Armenia. Using a small-n research design for data collection, in the form of semi-structured interviews with LGBTQ+ Georgians and LGBTQ+ Armenians currently residing in either Tbilisi or Yerevan, this thesis is also an attempt to contribute to the decolonialist literature of North-South migration whereby local populations, particularly those generally marginalised in research, are given a voice. This research finds that the most critical effect stemming from the mass migration was related to increased economic pressures, whereby an already precarious population is made more insecure, leading to an increased outward migration and nihilism among the population. In addition, privilege, respect, and post-colonialism were all important considerations to take into account when examining whether there was space for collaboration or integration on the basis of a shared social identity, particularly among LGBTQ+ Georgians. While similar issues existed among LGBTQ+ Armenians, there was more openness to engaging with LGBTQ+ Russians due to a different history of conflict and the role of Armenian-Russian “bridge-makers.”