Abkhazia and Russia: A Role Theory Analysis : A Qualitative Study of the Relationship Between a De Facto State and its Patron

Abstract: This paper investigates why patron states choose to adopt a passive strategy in relation to de facto states. Pål Kolstø from the University of Oslo has claimed that this strategy is based on the assumption that de facto states have nowhere else to turn. In this thesis, role theory is used to expand this claim. The paper argues that patron states can adopt a passive strategy in relation to their clients when they expect role coherence. This occurs when the perceptions of both actors of the patron’s role are in alignment. Role theory places emphasis on both leaders and followers in bilateral relations, which enables a deeper exploration of the perspectives of both actors. The selected case study focuses on the relationship between Russia and the de facto state Abkhazia, acknowledged by previous research as a client characterised by a high degree of defiance. Thematic analysis by Braun and Clarke was used to identify roles on which the study was based. The material encompasses 25 articles each from the Abkhaz newspaper Respublika Abkhaziya and Russian newspaper Izvestiya during the years 2019 and 2020.  The thesis concludes that role coherence was present in this relationship. Despite diverging attitudes and interests, the perception of Russia’s role was clearly reflected in Abkhaz media. The results indicate that role theory can be used to explore how patron states conduct foreign policy and enables a more comprehensive study of patron-client relationships.