ABKHAZIA ENACTS REFERENDUM LAW.

Publication: Monitor Volume: 2 Issue: 44

The Abkhaz Supreme Soviet passed a law February 28 on the holding of referenda in the unrecognized republic. A referendum may be initiated by the president, the legislature, or citizens if they collect at least 10,000 signatures. Parliament chairman Sokrat Djindjolia denied any connection between the adoption of this law and the deadlocked negotiations with Tbilisi regarding Abkhazia’s future status. (13) The law’s adoption and timing appear designed to increase the pressure on Tbilisi. The Abkhaz leaders have repeatedly warned that they may resort to a referendum to seal their secession from Georgia and possibly to proclaim accession to the Russian Federation.

Lithuania Bracing for Austerity Program.