Research Objective

The objective of the research was to study the multifaceted needs of the densely populated Ossetian community in Kakheti villages, including educational, cultural, social, and other aspects. However, the study also explored several additional areas, including:

• Identity characteristics
• Experiences acquired during the 1990s conflict
• Motivations for migration and the connections with the Tskhinvali region and North Ossetia

Research Methods

For this research, we employed a qualitative method: in-depth interviews. In total, 18 individual and 7 group interviews were conducted, involving 39 respondents residing in seven villages densely populated by Ossetians. The respondents spanned different age groups and genders, with the youngest being 18 years old and the oldest 80 years old. For details on the number of interviews per village, refer to Table #1. Our research tool consisted of an interview guide containing open-ended questions.

Table #1

Fieldwork

Fieldwork took place in August 2023, with face-to-face interviews conducted at the respondents' residences, and the interviews were audio-recorded.

Data Analysis: The analysis of the data gathered through in-depth interviews unfolded in several sequential steps. Firstly, the audio recordings were transcribed and converted into written transcripts. In the subsequent stage, the data underwent coding and categorization. Finally, the structured content was localized and inclusively integrated, forming the basis for the preparation of an analytical report.

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