Irakli Gabelia holds a Bachelor's degree in International Relations from Caucasus International University. He later successfully completed a Master's program in International Relations and Security, earning his Master’s degree after defending his thesis titled “NATO – Black Sea Region Strategy in the Context of Regional Security.” In this work, he examined NATO’s strategic objectives and actions in relation to the complex geopolitical landscape of the Black Sea region.
From 2019 to 2023, Irakli Gabelia was a PhD candidate in Political Science at Caucasus International University. His doctoral dissertation, titled “Black Sea Security in the Contemporary Geopolitical Context,” analyzes the multifaceted security challenges in the region and proposes mechanisms for avoiding potential conflicts. The research explores the geopolitical interests of opposing actors, identifying the primary features of the antagonism that often manifest in instability and volatility.
Irakli's dissertation includes a historical analysis of the Black Sea region, applying historical research methodologies to investigate the evolution of conflicts and the geopolitical dynamics of the actors involved. In addition to exploring the roots of regional tensions, the study proposes innovative approaches for resolving existing issues. The concluding section of the dissertation focuses on Georgia’s role in contributing to regional security and stability, highlighting the country’s strategic significance within the broader Black Sea framework.
Irakli Gabelia is currently a research fellow at the Center for International Policy Research and Forecasting (CIPRF), where he actively engages in academic research and policy analysis related to international security and geopolitics.