Abstract:

The research aims to uncover violence against women in conflict areas to prevent future atrocities, with a specific focus on femicide cases in Abkhazia, Georgia, which have not been previously studied by scholars. This phenomenon has gained renewed attention following the war in Ukraine.

Examining how women are targeted and killed due to hate, contempt, pleasure, or a sense of power over them, the study sheds light on the unique vulnerabilities women face during armed conflict. Georgia, with a population of 4.3 million, has endured two wars with Russia, resulting in widespread displacement and a lack of human security post-conflict, exacerbating risks for women.

Through in-depth interviews conducted on fifteen femicide cases, utilizing oral history tools with internally displaced people in Georgia, the research captures firsthand accounts from witnesses, often close friends or relatives of the victims.

Moreover, the study delves into post-traumatic growth among women who have experienced societal trauma, a topic often overlooked by media coverage but deserving of attention for its demonstration of resilience and potential for positive change despite profound suffering.

Highlighting the importance of societal conflict transformation in enhancing women's security, the study emphasizes the crucial role of the media in breaking the silence, documenting truth, and amplifying authentic voices to address and prevent violence against women.