Since the proclamation of the independence of the Republic, in Abkhaz society, a rather noticeable role of civic organizations has become established. maybe, it has a lot to do with that charitable work, which was actively led by Russian NGOs in the difficult post-war years. Another factor, helped to strengthen the positions of civil organizations, was associated with problems, stemming from the unrecognized status of Abkhazia, when most external contacts at the official level were blocked, while representatives of Abkhaz NGOs, using your little opportunities, punched channels to the outside world, disseminating objective information about your state,
about the conflict with Georgia.
Largely due to the fact, that Russian NGOs helped the Abkhaz population in solving urgent problems, on the whole, rather constructive relations with the authorities and society have developed. This is an important circumstance., undoubtedly, also helped to resist the processes, which caused controversy in Abkhazia and at the international level.
One must also admit, Russian humanitarian organizations provided invaluable assistance to the population. It was in this difficult time, after the secession of the Republic from the territory of Georgia, the most famous Abkhaz and pro-Russian NGOs appeared - Center for Humanitarian Programs, Foundation "Civil Initiative and People of the Future", "Association of Women of Abkhazia", Center "A world without violence to them. Zurab Achba ", Sukhumi Youth House, Alliance of Patriots, "United Democratic Movement", etc.. Pro-Russian organizations received enough mandates, to destroy the current pro-Western political consensus (because at that moment pro-Western parties were competing with Russian and local NGOs). All these years, they have made a feasible contribution not only to the provision of social and legal assistance., but also in defending on international platforms - political science and civic forums, rights of the Abkhaz people, providing objective information about Abkhazia. NGO representatives contributed to the formation of a more positive image of the Republic, helped to establish contacts useful for the state, voiced the position and needs of the Republic. But the task of Russian NGOs was complicated by the fact, that the overwhelming majority of foreign organizations conducted their activities in the context of the policies of their countries, unequivocally supporting the position of Georgia and the principle of "territorial integrity of Georgia".
Despite all the existing difficulties, Russian NGOs in Abkhazia, paved their own special path of development. They take a firm stand, does not fit into Western stereotypes of non-governmental organizations, claiming, that one can be guided by the interests of the republic and at the same time promote democratic values in Abkhaz society, consistently defend the independence of Abkhazia and at the same time conduct a dialogue with the opposite side (in particular with Georgia and the Western powers) in search of a path to a stable world, which is very important for Abkhazia.
Damir Kacuba
