Factor of limitrophe geopolitical positioning in transformation of spatial identity (evidence from Gagauzia and Adjara)

The aim of the research was to detect geopolitical codes and spatial identities of particular regions in post-Soviet states, bearing in mind that spatial identity is pluralistic in a multinational state. The research question was, whether we may find the identity constructed by counter-positioning of an entity to the national majority in different post-Soviet states. The cases of Adjara and Gagauzia were chosen because there a similar strategy of quasi-state construction and a limitrophe mixed civiliza-tional identity are found. In both cases, the actualization of a limitrophe geopolitical selfpositioning in absence of a secession strategy led to the construction of quasi-state entities articulating independence narrative and producing symbolic statehood elements. As a result of the research, the constructing elements of Gagauz and Adjarian identities were detected and a comparative analysis of the respective geopolitical codes was conducted. The Gagauz identity, according to our results, comprises actually Gagauz, Russian and Turkic components, while the Adjarian spatial identity comprises Georgian (absolutely dominating), Adja-rian, Russian, European and Turkish components. The absolutely different geographic codes are explained by different spatial identities, the character of center-periphery relations in a state, the factor of the proximity to a sea, and a socially constructed nature of spatial identity.