Ideological Impact on Social-Economic Development of the Region of Tusheti (Georgia) after WWII

Abstract

The paper deals with one of the highland regions of Eastern Georgia - Tusheti, which represents a geoeconomic and ethnocultural phenomenon from a scientific and worldview perspectives. The research sheds light on ideological influences on the socio-economic and the cultural situation of Tusheti from the 1930s to the present day, a number of shortcomings and consequences of Soviet economic reforms, and on its backdrop. The Tush people, uncontented with the system joined an anti-Soviet organization linking the idea of Georgia's independence to the European countries. The centuries-old model of life based on communal relations, setting up on the democratic principles (the right to private property, equality, freedom of speech) was destroyed by Soviet ideological pressure. These principles naturally merged with European values. For centuries, Tusheti, placed in the geostrategic area was of great importance not only for the security of the region, but it also was a natural bridge in connecting the Eurasian cultures. Its strategic importance was particularly increased in the post-Soviet period. The contours of the geostrategic location of this region was revealed exactly in this period. The importance of the sustainable development of Tusheti has transcended national and state boundaries and has come under international environmental frameworks, which have laid the foundation for adapting traditional knowledge and experience with modern international standards and irreversible processes of cooperation. Based on the analysis of scientific literature, historical sources, and field materials, I conclude that the elements of the pro-Western orientation that affects Georgia have been felt in Tusheti from social and cultural viewpoints. Integration into European culture is of great importance for the preservation and further development of Tusheti cultural heritage.