South Caucasus

In the South Caucasus, we work in the Georgian-Abkhaz and Armenian-Azerbaijani conflicts to create an environment in which progress towards peace is possible.

After the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, insecurity and the widespread availability of weapons transformed disputes over status and territory into full-scale wars in Abkhazia, South Ossetia and Mountainous Karabakh. After decades of negotiations and recurring violence peaceful settlements remain elusive. 

    University students in Abkhazia Credit: Ibrahim Chkadua
    The Georgian-Abkhaz conflict

    We work with a wide range of partners to identify and address the drivers of conflict, undertaking initiatives to open up new spaces for debate within and between Georgian and Abkhaz societies and build capacities for peace. We work with experts, peacebuilders, politicians and officials to create an environment in which progress can be made – informing local and international policies, working to improve the lives of people directly affected by conflict and improving understanding of multiple perspectives on conflict dynamics.

    Nagorny Karabakh. Credit: Laurence Broers
    The Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict

    We work with a network of local partners to produce documentary films and other materials that challenge the narratives perpetuating conflict. We also organise dialogue among peacebuilders, analysts and international experts to analyse core obstacles to peace, and to generate new thinking and policy recommendations.

    Our work in action

    We work to build connections among people affected by the conflicts, in order to improve the chances for peace and stability in this region.
    Discussions during a partnership workshop in London

    Our partners in the South Caucasus

    Our programme partners are at the heart of what we do. These relationships, often developed over years and even decades, are crucial to making peace possible.