Georgia: Overview

Travel Warning: South Ossetia and Abkhazia

World leaders have condemned Russia's recognition of South Ossetia and Abkhazia as independent states. Russia claims to have completed its withdrawal of troops from the Georgian breakaway regions, despite allegations of violating the ceasefire terms and the presence of Russian 'peacekeepers'. Heavy fighting commenced in the Georgian breakaway region of South Ossetia on August 7 with the Georgian military sending a large force into the capital of the breakaway province, Tskhinvali. Russia poured troops into the region the following day: civilian casualties were reported, and more than 50,000 people were displaced. On August 10, Georgia claimed its forces were outside South Ossetia, but Russia persisted with air raids and ignored calls for a ceasefire. Russia deployed more troops into Abkhazia, deep into Georgian territory, but finally halted military activity and agreed to the peace deal on August 12. The South Ossetia region remains a no-go zone for travellers.

Following the January 2008 presidential election, won by Mikhail Saakashvili, opposition supporters challenging the result staged peaceful protests in Tbilisi. Prior to this, in November 2007, political demonstrations turned violent, resulting in a temporary state of emergency being imposed. Although Saakashvili's ruling party won parliamentary elections on 21 May, the opposition bloc claimed the results were rigged. Travellers should avoid large gatherings and demonstrations. Check out Safe Travel for updated government warnings or the Thorn Tree travel forum for insights from travellers.

Travellers are advised to avoid the border regions of Chechnya, Dagestan, North Ossetia, Ingushetia, Kabarda-Balkar and Karachay-Cherkessia. The main risks to travellers in these areas are land mines, civil unrest and a high incidence of kidnapping. The Pankisi Gorge area north of Akhmeta is the site of a concerted counter-terrorism campaign, and travellers should avoid unaccompanied travel to Svaneti.

severity: Extreme Danger