B. Coppiters, Free University Brussels, Belgium, Brussels (Bruno.Coppieters@vub.as.be)
Abstract. The paper shows that there is a similarity on the level of principles between the Georgian strategy of engagement and the Taiwan model insofar as the expressed readiness to interact and cooperate independently from the setbacks concerning the question of status. But, contrary the Taiwan model, the Georgian strategy includes no concrete view how and to which extent the authorities controlling the breakaway territories should be engaged, and particularly how to have a positive impact on their relations with the outside world. The paper further demonstrates that the Russian authorities have made largely use of the moral and legal arguments to be found in the recognition of Kosovo when they decided to recognize Abkhazia and South Ossetia in August 2008. They have also increased their political oversight over these two entities and integrated them even more closely into their own economic and military space. There are thus close parallels to be made with the Kosovo model, but Russia is unable to exert a conflict resolution policy towards Abkhazia, South Ossetia and Georgia that is based on regional integration prospects.
Keywords: Abkhazia, South Ossetia, separatism, secession, model, permissions, conflict, Taiwanese model, Kosovo model, transformation of conflicts
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