Citizenship in a de facto state. The case of Estonians in Abkhazia

In the case of de facto states, among which the international community includes Abkhazia, the international recognition of these countries is a critical issue. Although they have a permanent population, a defined territory and a functioning government, their ability to engage with other states is limited. Abkhazia is recognized by some countries, but there are few opportunities for communication with the majority of countries in the political, economic, educational and social spheres. For inhabitants of Abkhazia, the lack of international recognition also affects their ability to cross borders and travel – it is not possible to cross borders with a passport of an unrecognized state. This also affects ethnic diasporas living in Abkhazia, whose ability to maintain translocal relations with their homeland has been severely disrupted. This article examines the different citizenship options available to the members of the Estonian diaspora in Abkhazia and the limitations imposed by the country's lack of international recognition. The study examines how legal restrictions hinder the maintenance of ties with the homeland and explores possible ways to overcome these obstacles.