XXIV. Between Peacekeeping And Peacebuilding - International Engagement For Peace In The South Caucasus-Experience Of A UN SRSG

Abstract

In this chapter, the author relates his experiences as a position holder at Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Georgia (SRSG). Throughout the Soviet era tensions periodically flared up between the Soviet Socialist Republic of Georgia and the Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic of Abkhazia. The tensions reached a climax during the 'perestroika'-period. A UN-peacekeeping force (United Nations Observer Mission in Georgia, UNOMIG) was established in August 1993 to verify compliance with the cease-fire agreement of July 27, 1993. The gradual establishment of trust, despite internal political developments, has created a long-missing impetus to the peace process. The United Nations' role remains indispensable to the Georgian-Abkhaz peace process, including in the views of both sides to the conflict. Its lead in the negotiations process and its support and encouragement of the sides to engage in a direct and meaningful dialogue remain essential to reach a lasting conflict settlement. Keywords: 'perestroika'-period; Georgian-Abkhaz peace process; UN SRSG; UNOMIG