Abkhazia Border, Georgia

Photos taken on a recent field trip to the Caucasus. 

Georgians with Abhkazian citizenship cross, on foot or in carriage, between Georgia proper and the breakaway state Abkhazia. 

Since the outbreak of conflict in 1991, Abkhazia has been disputed territory.

 In 2008, following further conflict in South Ossetia, Russia declared recognition of both Abkhazia and South Ossetia's independence. Both are now 'De-Facto' states. Under international law, they are considered Georgian territory occupied by Russia. 

 The humanitarian consequences of the conflicts were dire, leaving nearly 300,000 displaced from their homes. Unlike those pictured below, the majority cannot return.