The Impact of Tourism Activities on Economic Relations and Trust-Building in Frozen Conflicts: The Case of Abkhazia

Abstract

In the modern world, conflicts remain a significant problem and have a serious impact on both regional security and socio-economic development. In conflict-affected regions, economic activity is often hindered, unemployment increases, trust among the population declines, and opportunities for cooperation weaken. These challenges are particularly evident in the case of Georgia, where the conflicts in the Abkhazia region have significantly impeded both regional development and the process of restoring relations between societies. Under such conditions, particular importance is attached to practical approaches that promote peace not only through political agreements but also through everyday economic interactions.

Tourism is one of the sectors that can play a positive role even in a conflict environment. Despite existing security risks and infrastructural challenges, properly planned tourism activities create employment opportunities, support the development of local businesses, and strengthen economic ties between different communities. Thus, tourism can become a kind of economic bridge that facilitates interaction between parties separated by conflict and lays the foundation for cooperation, including in sensitive contexts such as relations connected to the Abkhazia region.