04.11.2025 Looking Back at CCC13

Experiencing, Understanding, and Crossing Borders

The thirteenth edition of the Caucasus Conflict Culture (CCC) summer school took place in Lagodekhi, Georgia, from 21 to 31 August 2025. This international research and exchange project brought together students from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Germany to explore the theme “Closed Borders in the South Caucasus: Consequences for Border Communities”.

We are participants from Marburg University at CCC13. Having arrived from four different countries, we met in Lagodekhi, a town surrounded by mountains, border zones and a lush nature reserve. From our first dinner together, it was clear that CCC13 was about more than just a research project; it was also a space for dialogue, curiosity and forming new friendships.

During the first few days, we were introduced to Peace and Conflict Studies, order research and Anthropological methods before forming multinational research groups. Together, we developed our own research questions. The heart of the project was the field research. We conducted interviews with local residents, covered as much ground as possible, and gained first-hand insight into how borders influence social and economic realities. Supported by mentors from all four countries, we collected stories, data and perspectives that both challenged and enriched our understanding.

In addition to the academic work, CCC13 provided ample opportunity for cultural exchange and shared experiences, such as hiking in the Lagodekhi Nature Reserve and having long evening conversations about history and daily life. Finally, we celebrated together at the traditional Georgian “Supra”, where we presented our research results.

CCC13 was so much more than just a summer school. It brought people together across borders, providing an opportunity to learn from one another and fostering a collective effort to understand how conflict, isolation and cooperation shape life in the South Caucasus. For many of us, it was an invaluable personal journey of connection, empathy and friendship, as well as an academic experience. It was a reminder that research can build bridges where borders divide.

We thank all the supervisors, organisers and mentors who made CCC13 possible. Thanks to your dedication, this year's Summer School was able to provide an inspiring environment for learning, exchange and collaboration.

About CCC

Caucasus Conflict Culture (CCC) is an international student research and dialogue programme that is jointly organised by Marburg University (Anthropology, Peace and Conflict Studies) and partner institutions in the South Caucasus. The programme brings together students from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Germany to explore conflict-related issues through theoretical training, field research and intercultural exchange. Working in multinational teams, participants gain research experience, develop cross-border dialogue, and contribute to a better understanding of the region's social challenges. The projects are funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the German Federal Foreign Office.