The Abkhazian issue and the problem of identity seen from Georgian and Circassian Diaspora in Turkey

This thesis shows how the Abkhazian Issue, which occurred after the collapse of USSR, has affected the structure of the identity of Circassian and Georgian societies in Turkey. It also explains how the meaning of this issue has changed for these societies. This issue can be considered as an important factor which formed the identity of diaspora in Circassian society in Turkey, especially among youth. Moreover, it was the symbol of ?unity? for Circassian society in Turkey. On the other hand, Georgian society in Turkey strengthened the relationship with Georgia after ?The Rose Revolution? in 2003. Since that time, the identity of diaspora has been formed in Georgian society in Turkey. The Abkhazian Issue has brought the unifying factor between Georgia and Georgian society in Turkey. The recognition of the independence of Abkhazia brought about the arguments on Sochi Olimpics in 2014 and the Circassian Exile in 19th century together. These arguments have made Circassian society divided. At the same time, particularly Georgia?s strengthening with Caucasian societies caused arguments about Georgian identity. As a result, the Abkhazian Issue accelerated the formation of the identity of diaspora in Georgian society as well as Circassian. At the same time these societies has been influenced more deeply by developments in their ?motherlands?. The structure of these societies became more complicated because of strengthening the relationships with their ?motherlands? and the technology development.