ABSTRACT
The conclusion will briefly summarise the main empirical findings of the book and presents the core conceptional and theoretical findings. It reflects on the implementation of engagement without recognition in the case of the EU and Abkhazia and the broader implications on the research field. The final chapter summarises the findings of the work on engagement without recognition as an approach to conflict resolution in de facto states and discusses both the potentials and the shortcomings of the policy, especially in its practical implementation. It becomes clear that the book, with its detailed analysis of the practical levels of international engagement, has significantly broadened our understanding of the relationship between de facto states and international actors.
