History of Socio-Economic Development of the Republic of Abkhazia in 1992–2020

The article examines the socio-economic development of the de facto state of the post-Soviet space, Abkhazia, in historical retrospect from 1992 to 2020. The transition of the Republic of Abkhazia from a “survival economy” to a development economy in 2008 is associated with its recognition by the Russian Federation. This milestone allows for clear tracking of progress in various sectors and directions of the economy, characterized by a nonlinear nature accompanied by numerous contradictions and ambiguities. Among the problems of economic development during the considered period, the article highlights issues such as the international status of the republic, economic and military dependence on the patron state, sanctions from the parent state, trade restrictions imposed by CIS countries, the shadow economy, the need to restore infrastructure after military actions, high emigration rates, low demographic potential, and a shortage of labor force. Nevertheless, a wide range of problems were contained and addressed in various ways, including leveraging the republic’s resource potential.