In the break-away region of Abkhazia, some 75 per cent of the original inhabitants have reportedly fled civil conflict into other parts of Georgia and the area remains the scene of extensive destruction. In some areas, large numbers of mines have been laid and roads are impassable. Of all the difficulties currently facing Georgia, the most immediate are the scarcity of basic foods and the critical energy supply situation. After several years of huge budget deficits, the Government lacks the resources to ensure the continued provision of basic social services. Many primary health-care units and hospitals are unable to function because of shortages of medicines and equipment.
Health care is now almost entirely dependent on international humanitarian assistance.
In addition, large numbers of orphans, abandoned children and people in need of special education are currently living in extremely poor circumstances because of reduced government spending. Most lack adequate food, bedding, warm clothes and learning materials. As in the neighbouring Caucasus republics, textbooks and school materials are in short supply and many school buildings urgently need rehabilitation. There has also been little progress in the return of refugees and displaced persons to Abkhazia. Since the end of November 1994, formal repatriation has virtually halted, and the Quadripartite Commission has not met since 16 February 1995.