This article presents a rudimentary theoretical framework identifying which qualities of autonomy solutions for ethnic minority groups increase the likelihood of conflict. It discusses how autonomy relates to other factors conducive to conflict by studying minorities in the South Caucasus & examines the case of Georgia. In Georgia, there were five ethnic minority populations, two of whom -- the Abkhaz & the South Ossetians -- enjoyed autonomous status & were the only minorities to engage in armed conflict with the Georgian government. This article shows how autonomy, by empowering ethnic elites with control of statelike institutions & by enhancing factors such as leadership, economic viability, & external support, played a crucial role in the escalation of the conflicts in Abkhazia & South Ossetia. Conversely, the absence of autonomy mitigated separatist & secessionist sentiments among two of Georgia's other minority groups -- Javakheti's Armenian & Kvemo Kartli's Azeri populations. 1 Table. Adapted from the source document.