Trends in demographic processes in the Republic of South Ossetia in the post-war period since 2008

Introduction. Military actions, leading to mass migration and increased mortality, have a significant impact on the number and structure of the population of the states in which they take place. The Republic of South Ossetia, which has experienced two armed conflicts over the past 30 years (in 1991-1992 and 2008), has faced deep demographic upheavals that require detailed analysis and understanding today. At the same time, the study of the demographic situation in South Ossetia is important not only for the Republic itself, but also for the entire Caucasus region and the international community. The experience of South Ossetia may be useful for other post-conflict territories facing similar problems.

Goal. The study aims to assess the demographic trends in the Republic of South Ossetia in 2008-2022, the period after the military aggression by Georgia.

Materials and methods. The work used statistical data collected from various sources, including official population censuses and reports from State authorities. Quantitative and qualitative analysis methods have been applied to assess the size and structure of the population, the mechanical movement of the population, as well as trends in the development of demographic processes.

Results and discussion. As a result of the study, the following features of the demographic development of the Republic in the period after the war in 2008 were identified: the restoration of the population due to fertility, the return of the indigenous population and the positive migration influx from Russia and the former Soviet republics; the instability of the gender and age structure of the population, where certain age groups reflect the consequences of military operations; the increase in urbanization processes characterized by gradual resettlement population from villages to the capital
of the Republic – Tskhinval and nearby settlements.

Conclusion. Accordingly, the study of demographic changes in the Republic of South Ossetia after the war with Georgia is an important step towards understanding and solving problems related to the restoration and development of the region, ensuring the well-being of its population and maintaining stability. The results of the study emphasize the importance of an integrated approach to demographic and migration policy in South Ossetia, including measures to stimulate fertility and improve living conditions for the local population.

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