Finding the Common Ground: Visibility, Cooperation and Tensions between Russian and Georgian Civil Society Initiatives in Tbilisi, 2023

Abstract

This article explores the coexistence of the Russian émigré community and Georgian civil society in Tbilisi and the tensions between them since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022. It analyzes how these interactions reflect broader post-colonial dynamics, particularly focusing on the differing political grammars and histories that shape both communities. Drawing from extensive fieldwork, the study highlights the complexities of this encounter, emphasizing the influence of historical narratives, collective action, and the post-Soviet socio-political context. The paper uncovers the nuances of visibility, integration, and mutual perceptions, ultimately contributing to the broader debates on post-socialist societies, migration, and civil society development.