Human Security at the Dividing Lines: Insights for the Administrative Border Line within Georgia

The report by the Social Justice Center examines the multifaceted challenges faced by populations residing along Georgia’s Administrative Boundary Lines (ABLs) with Abkhazia and South Ossetia. While the report does not explicitly focus on gender, applying a gender-sensitive lens reveals critical insights into how women and girls are uniquely affected in these contested regions. In conflict-affected areas, women and girls often face heightened vulnerabilities, including increased risks of gender-based violence, limited access to healthcare, and economic insecurity. The disruption of social services and community networks exacerbates these challenges, leaving women with fewer resources and support systems. Women in these regions frequently have minimal representation in peacebuilding and security decision-making processes. Their exclusion hinders the development of comprehensive security strategies that address the specific needs and experiences of all community members. The militarization of border zones and the presence of security checkpoints can restrict women’s mobility, making it difficult to access essential services such as education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. These barriers contribute to the marginalization of women and impede their ability to contribute to community resilience. By adopting a gender-sensitive approach, stakeholders can develop more effective and equitable strategies to enhance human security in Georgia’s border zones, ultimately contributing to sustainable peace and development.