Note

Freedom in the World reports assess the level of political rights and civil liberties in a given geographical area, regardless of whether they are affected by the state, nonstate actors, or foreign powers. Related, disputed, or occupied territories are sometimes assessed separately if they meet certain criteria, including distinct conditions for political rights and civil liberties and boundaries that are sufficiently stable to allow year-on-year comparisons. For more information, see the report methodology and FAQ.

 Overview

Abkhazia, a breakaway region of Georgia, has maintained de facto independence since the end of a civil conflict in 1993. The separatist government is financially dependent on Russia, which has a military presence in Abkhazia and is one of a handful of United Nations (UN) member states that recognize the territory’s independence. The tumultuous political environment features significant opposition and civil society activity. Ongoing problems include a flawed criminal justice system, discrimination against ethnic Georgians, and a lack of economic opportunity.

 Key Developments in 2024

• Throughout the year, Abkhazian lawmakers joined civic groups and protesters in pushing back against Moscow-backed policies that threatened local control and autonomy. In February, the parliament adopted legislation that required the president to submit any international treaty to lawmakers for review before signing it. In April, the parliament refused to pass a government-backed bill that would have imposed heavy penalties for insulting or slandering public officials or spreading “false information.”
• In July, the parliamentary leadership withdrew a controversial bill that would have allowed foreigners—most likely Russians—to build and own thousands of apartments in Abkhazia. The proposal had sparked persistent protests, with political and civil society opponents warning of higher prices and potential demographic changes.
• In September, the Russian government suspended financial support for Abkhazia in an apparent bid to compel adoption of other contentious pro-Russian measures. In late October, the Abkhazian government signed a tentative agreement in Moscow that would have given Russian entities extensive tax subsidies for investment projects in Abkhazia. The deal prompted more mass protests, in which demonstrators forced their way into the parliament and government buildings. The unrest led both President Aslan Bzhania and Prime Minister Aleksandr Ankvab to resign in November, and the parliament voted to reject the investment agreement in December. At year’s end, Vice President Badra Gunba was serving as acting president, and a snap presidential election was expected in early 2025.
• Separately, it was reported in April that Abaza-TV, described as the only independent television channel in Abkhazia, had been purchased by Moscow-based ethnic Abkhaz businessman Zakhar Agrba, raising concerns about its future editorial autonomy. Meanwhile, independent and opposition-oriented channels on the social media platform Telegram continued to provide alternative views and information. In September, a Telegram channel leaked a document suggesting that Russian and Abkhazian authorities were colluding to revoke the Russian citizenship of Abkhazian lawmakers who opposed Kremlin-backed legislation and policies.

This report has been abridged for Freedom in the World 2025 due to ongoing budget constraints. Freedom in the World is entirely funded by nongovernmental sources such as private foundations, corporations, and individuals like you. Please consider making a donation to support future editions of this vital resource.

For additional background information, see last year’s full report.

PR Political Rights

CL Civil Liberties