Study of Attitudes and Expectations of Internally Displaced Persons in regards to Returning to Their Home Places or Accepting Other Sound Alternatives

20 Feb 2015

With the aim of promoting that voices and perceptions of internally displaced persons on voluntary return and alternate durable solutions are heard, UNHCR commissioned an Intentions Survey among IDPs in Georgia. The survey was carried out by the Institute of Social Studies and Analysis (ISSA). Two thousand and one (2,001) internally displaced persons were interviewed by ISSA between October-December 2014 in Tbilisi and ten regions of Georgia. The survey accounted for IDPs originating from all districts of Abkhazia and South Ossetia currently living in various housing conditions, including collective centers, cottage settlements, and in private housing.

Two thousand and one (2,001) IDPs in Georgia have shared with the reader of this document their aspirations, thoughts and feelings regarding their future. For many of them, this was an important step in their own reflection process on returning home, integration, and relocation in displacement. While conducting a survey sounds like a very technical exercise, for the IDPs involved it was an emotional journey as interviewers steered women, men, girls, and boys through the 63 questions of the six-page questionnaire. Tears were shed in memory of the past and as hopes for a better future were expressed. IDPs trusted the survey process and opened their doors, hearts and minds to ensure that the survey results will help to shape their future destiny in a way that reflects their desires.

Vincent Cochetel, Director, UNHCR Regional Bureau

for Europe, 18 March 2015