United Nations in Georgia

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth's environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Georgia:

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20 June 2024

Didier Trebucq assumes duties as the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Georgia

On Thursday, Didier Trebucq, the new United Nations Resident Coordinator in Georgia, formally presented his credentials to the President of Georgia, H.E. Salome Zourabichvili.Mr. Trebucq expressed his appreciation to President Salome Zourabichvili for Georgia's enduring partnership with the United Nations and reiterated the UN's unwavering commitment to supporting the people of Georgia on the country’s sustainable development pathway. "I am deeply honored to lead the UN team in Georgia," he said. "I look forward to collaborating with our national and international partners to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and build a just, sustainable and peaceful future for all, especially those most in need."Earlier today, Didier Trebucq presented copies of his credentials to Mr. Lasha Darsalia, First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia.Photo: © MFA of GeorgiaThe United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres appointed Didier Trebucq of France as the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Georgia on 17 June with the host Government’s approval.Mr. Trebucq brings more than 24 years of experience in sustainable development, climate change, social cohesion, peace and development, crisis prevention and humanitarian action with the United Nations and International Organizations. He previously served as the UN Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean states, covering ten countries and territories and leading a sub-regional team of more than 20 UN Agencies, Funds and Programmes. His extensive experience with the UN also includes serving as the UNDP Country Director in Brazil, the UNDP Deputy Resident Representative respectively in Peru and Guyana, and the Team Leader for Crisis Prevention and Recovery with UNDP India.Before joining the United Nations, he worked as Head of Delegation of the French Red Cross in Colombia and Ecuador, with Doctors Without Borders in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, and the private sector in France. He holds a Master’s degree in Sustainable Development with a specialization in environmental economics from Imperial College London (UK), and a Maîtrise in Business Administration and Management from the Institut Français de Gestion (France).

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26 January 2026

Georgia’s Golden Grains

In December 2025, Georgia reached a moment it had long been waiting for. UNESCO officially recognised the country’s ancient wheat culture, a tradition woven through more than eight millennia of history, as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.For a country already celebrated as the birthplace of wine, the decision felt like a homecoming. Bread and wine, nurtured in Georgian soil for thousands of years, were finally recognised together on a global stage.But this recognition is not just a tribute to the past. It opens a new chapter, shining a light on endemic grain varieties, farming practices passed down through generations, and the urgency of protecting biodiversity as climate pressures intensify.For Georgians, wheat and vines have never been merely crops. They are part of the country’s emotional landscape, rooted in memory, ritual, and daily life.“Our traditional codes of wheat cultivation are built on values like unity, fairness, and shared responsibility,” says Lali Meskhi, co-founder of the Association of Georgian Wheat Growers. “For Georgians, bread is sacred. It must not be thrown away or even placed upside down. Bread is the bridge between people, the earth, and the divine.”Lali has devoted years to preserving this heritage. Back in 2020, when her organisation launched its first small-scale projects to rescue Georgia’s ancient grains, UNDP and the Global Environment Facility’s (GEF’s) Small Grants Programme stepped in to help. This support, based on a mix of funding, guidance, and community connections, helped local farmers experiment, learn, and grow.“With support from UNDP and GEF, we revived endemic and landrace seeds, first in experimental nurseries and then across 50 hectares of land,” Lali recalls. “Farmers were trained, consulted, and encouraged. And slowly, more people joined the effort.”Today, what began as a community experiment is blossoming into something with far wider potential — a foundation for rural tourism, healthier diets, stronger food security, and more resilient communities.The story of Georgia’s golden grains is not only about agriculture or even heritage. It is about people: farmers who refused to let ancient seeds disappear, communities rediscovering their traditions, and a country reconnecting with the wisdom of its ancestors to face modern-time challenges.Above all, it is a story about the future: a future where ancient seeds continue to sprout in Georgian soil, carrying centuries of wisdom into the hands of a new generation.A field of endemic and landrace wheat in Asureti village. Photo: UNDP | Vladimir ValishviliWhy Georgian Wheat MattersGeorgia’s ancient wheat is unlike anything else in the world. Of the 20 wheat species known globally, fifteen grow here, and five of them exist nowhere else on Earth. Their names carry the rhythm of centuries: Makha, Zanduri, Dika, Kolkhuri Asli, and Chelta Zanduri.Research reveals that these grains have evolved amongst Georgia’s landscapes for millennia, learning to survive sudden frosts, summer heat, shifting rains, and poor soils. Many show impressive resistance to fungal diseases. Others thrive in drought-like conditions. Together, they hold the key to building a more resilient future as the climate becomes increasingly unpredictable.At a time when farmers everywhere are searching for crops that can withstand climate pressures, Georgia’s genetic treasure chest has never been more relevant.The history behind it is just as remarkable. Georgian wheat dates back more than 8,000 years, with archaeological and palaeobotanical discoveries placing the region among the earliest cradles of grain cultivation. Long before written history, communities here sowed the seeds that would one day feed entire civilisations.Today, this heritage offers enormous potential. For farmers, these ancient grains provide climate-resilient options. For researchers, they offer insights that can inform global agriculture. And for local communities, they are a living link to history, a reminder that the future of food can be rooted in the wisdom of the past.Georgia's endemic wheat. Photo: UNDP | Vladimir ValishviliWhy Community Action MattersSafeguarding and promoting Georgia’s endemic wheat varieties is just one of over 100 local initiatives supported by UNDP and the GEF Small Grants Programme. Since 2012, these efforts have invested more than US$2.5 million in green community action, focusing on biodiversity, eco-tourism, sustainable farming, climate resilience, women’s empowerment, social inclusion, and local economic growth. “Thanks to this impactful programme, communities, municipalities, civil society, researchers, and businesses are working together to shape a sustainable, climate-resilient future where everyone shares responsibility for people and the planet,” says Douglas Webb, UNDP Resident Representative in Georgia.Recent highlights include:Reviving Riparian Forest in Rustavi: In 2023-2025, volunteers and Data’s Ezo revived Rustavi’s Mtkvari River riparian forest. A small tree nursery expanded into the ‘Napirze’ reforestation campaign, planting 3,500 oak, hornbeam, and elm trees. Walking trails, irrigation systems, and drone-based floodplain monitoring engaged 1,000+ volunteers, boosting public participation and restoring a vital local ecosystem.Restoring Highland Pastures in Tetritskaro: In 2023-2025, UNDP and GEF SGP helped rehabilitate degraded highland pastures at 1,200 metres above sea level. Measures included soil restoration, planting legumes, installing irrigation systems, and building shaded shelters. Training and awareness campaigns reached local farmers and officials, while a 7,000 m² demonstration plot inspired neighbouring villages to adopt sustainable grazing practices.Innovative Solutions to Human-Wildlife Conflict in Borjomi-Kharagauli: In 2023–2024, local farmers piloted measures to reduce livestock losses from predators. Eleven premises received electric fences, 20 farmers were given Foxlights, and 18 were equipped with solar stations and rechargeable lights. These interventions strengthened community resilience while fostering peaceful coexistence between people and wildlife.Protecting Rare Birds in Chachuna Managed Reserve: In 2022-2024, Chachuna Reserve enhanced its ecotourism offer with new cottages and camping areas while introducing a supplementary feeding station for vultures. These initiatives, supported by UNDP, GEF SGP, local authorities, and civil society, aimed to sustain vulnerable bird populations, provide visitor experiences, and strengthen local livelihoods.Promoting Sustainable Agriculture in the Imereti Region: In 2021-2023, in Tskaltubo and Lanchkhuti, demonstration composting sites and school workshops were introduced to promote biodegradable waste management. These activities strengthened environmental awareness and supported sustainable farming practices, fostering a culture of community responsibility toward soil health.Greening a Local School in Nigvzari: In 2021-2023, local schoolchildren teamed up with the ‘Scouts of Georgia’ organisation and civil society to transform a 1,500 m² schoolyard into a nursery with saplings, berries, and a programmed irrigation system. The initiative also created jobs for four social workers, combining environmental education with local economic opportunities.Advancing Climate-Smart Agriculture in Tsalka: In 2021-2023, Georgian journalists visited several villages in Tsalka municipality to showcase climate adaptation projects: sprinkler irrigation, solar-powered fencing, Italian alfalfa cultivation, and biodiversity adaptation strategies. Knowledge sharing promoted resilient farming practices and informed climate-smart agriculture across neighbouring villages.Enhancing Ecotourism in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park: In 2021-2023, a 40-km hiking trail with shelters and campsites was established along Iron Cross Mount, combining tourism with community engagement. Local farmers and shepherds welcomed visitors with hospitality and fresh produce, enriching both experiences and livelihoods.Inspiring Creative Environmental Education in Tbilisi: In 2022, outdoor theatrical performances, delivered by professional actors, helped children and their parents reconnect with nature. This educational initiative encouraged young participants to take small actions for a greener, safer environment.Boosting Sustainable Agriculture in Tianeti: In 2021-2022, six vermicompost farms were set up to produce bio-humus using cattle manure and worms. These pilot farms are producing up to seven tonnes of natural fertiliser annually and strengthening organic farming practices.Promoting Ecotourism in Vashlovani Protected Areas: In 2021-2022, new tourism infrastructure, including a 5-km horse-riding trail and a bungalow for visitors, helped boost ecotourism and supported local communities. Partnerships between authorities and local associations strengthened both conservation efforts and economic opportunities in the region.Promoting Ecotourism in Tabatskuri: In 2021-2022, local biodiversity, including unique wetlands and alpine meadows, was highlighted through assessments, community training, and guided tours. Schoolchildren and tour operators learned about conservation and ecotourism, while visitors explored the ‘Velvet Scoter’s Path,’ linking education, community engagement, and sustainable tourism.Engaging Persons with Disabilities in Forest Restoration: In 2020-2022, in Borjomi, the daycare centre ‘Tebe’ created a nursery and greenhouse cultivating fir, pine, birch, and endemic spruce. Thirty people with disabilities gained employment and social integration opportunities while contributing to forest restoration and ecological renewal.Safeguarding Georgia’s Endemic Honeybee: Between 2019 and 2021, endemic Mountain Grey Georgian Honeybees were threatened by parasite attacks worsened by climate change. UNDP and GEF SGP helped train 70 apiarists, introducing new techniques and medicines. Within a year, pilot apiaries reported a significant drop in infestations, preserving this vital pollinator species and local livelihoods.Visit the GEF Small Grants Programme for more insights.

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08 December 2025

Esma’s journey: one step at a time

Each day, Esma braves the busy streets of Tbilisi, Georgia, a city full of cars and uneven pavements. Guided not by sight but by the steady rhythm of her white cane – and by her confidence – she moves forward with determination. For Esma, the cane is not just a tool; it is a symbol of independence, courage and resilience.“It is of vital importance for a person with visual impairment to be able to move around with the white cane,” she explains. “It starts from small steps like getting around the yard, then the street, riding a bus, a metro, reaching basic services, and so on.”Vision impairment and blindness affect people everywhere, including in upper-middle-income countries such as Georgia. Gaps in access to essential eye care services and assistive technology remain, particularly in rural and underserved areas. In Georgia alone, an estimated 696 000 people experience some form of vision impairment, while about 21 000 live with total blindness.A variety of options is essentialEsma is one of the few in her community who skilfully uses assistive technologies to build an independent and dignified life. Her journey has not been easy, but it has been marked by important milestones: spending a year in the United States of America as a Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) student, where she attended a regular public school, and interning with an advocacy organization. She returned home even more determined and now champions the rights of people with disabilities.For Esma, independence begins early. “One of the key issues is learning basic skills from the very beginning,” she says. “I would urge all parents who have just learned about their child’s visual impairment to invest in giving them skills and raising them as independent individuals.”She adds, “It is tough, but necessary. In the long run, this will also reduce the need for personal assistants, which is often such a burden on the state – both financially and in terms of availability.”Choice, she believes, is just as important as access. “White canes come in different sizes and shapes. Some are longer when they fold, some are better for winter, some are best for walking on grass, and some are better for moving around the city. Depending on the person’s needs, having a variety of options is essential. That’s why I also advocate for co-financing, in case government funding is not enough to provide a wide selection of white canes.”Awareness is the keyTo ensure users have appropriate options, WHO, together with ATscale, the Global Partnership for Assistive Technology, is advancing the development of specifications for several assistive products, including white canes, to make them safe, functional and responsive to user needs. Esma, along with other rights advocates and key stakeholders, is actively participating in this process.Yet tools and skills are not enough. Lack of public understanding can make daily life more challenging. “People generally don’t know how to act around people with visual impairments,” Esma admits. “While I haven’t had negative incidents, people often resort to unwanted pity or touch. Awareness is the key.”Esma’s story is more than one of personal resilience – it is a call to action. Through her advocacy she reminds us that the right to live independently and be included in the community must be supported by access to appropriate products, training and public awareness.When assistive technology, skills development and inclusive environments come together, people with visual impairments can participate fully in education, work and community life, thriving just as Esma does each day, one steady step at a time.

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01 December 2025

Breaking the silence

For most of us, sound – laughter, music, the voices of loved ones – is effortless. Yet for millions around the world, silence has become an unwanted companion.
Twenty-nine years ago, Ekaterine Tortladze’s life changed when her child was diagnosed with hearing loss. Searching for answers, she found herself in a maze of uncertainty, with no clear information, no emotional support and few resources.“What was missing was a place where patients and their families could turn not only for medical answers but also for compassion,” she recalls.Determined to fill the gap, she founded Aures, an organization for young people with hearing loss and their parents. For nearly 3 decades, Aures has worked to make services more humane and holistic, focusing on individuals and families.Ekaterine has seen how hearing loss isolates people. “They stop socializing and asking questions, they gradually withdraw from life,” she says. “But when a person hears again with the device, I feel the whole world should rejoice.”
“It feels like a miracle”
For Nana Gvarliani, deafness began in her teens and deepened after the birth of her third child. “It was not a peaceful silence – it was a roaring, buzzing void that consumed my energy,” she recalls. “I was exhausted and devastated from constant headaches.”After more than a decade without answers, Nana heard that a cochlear implant might help. “I was terrified of surgery but took the leap. When I could finally hear again, it was like being reborn. My joy for life returned.”Nana now travels regularly from her mountain village in Mestia for rehabilitation. “Every step is worth it,” she says. “I can talk to my children again. It feels like a miracle.”
“Sound gave me back my life”
Ten years ago, Elguja Zakareishvili, a craftsman, lost his hearing overnight. “I hated the silence,” he says. “I felt like half a person.” For years, he relied on his younger brother to communicate with clients, using written messages.Everything changed when he learned that cochlear implants were available in Georgia, and covered by the state. “At first, I only heard noise,” he recalls. “Then voices, then conversations. When I heard music again, I wanted to shout with joy.”He shares, “Sound gave me back my life. I want others to know that they can find it too.”
“I love school so much”Six-year-old Lizzie began first grade this year – something her family once feared might never happen. Born profoundly deaf, she spoke her first words after receiving a cochlear implant at age 2 and a half. “I love school so much that I want to be a teacher,” she says proudly.Her mother, Sophie, recognized the signs early and acted quickly. “I never treated her differently,” she says. “I talked, played and believed she could thrive with the right tools.”At school, Lizzie’s teacher helped classmates understand how Lizzie hears with her device, creating an environment of understanding and inclusion. “Children are naturally accepting when things are explained to them,” Sophie says.
Early detection, training and awareness
The stories of Ekaterine, Nana, Elguja and Lizzie reflect the progress and challenges of ear and hearing care in Georgia and around the world.Across the globe, more than 1.5 billion people experience some degree of hearing loss, and fewer than 20% receive the services they need. Unaddressed hearing loss costs nearly US$ 1 trillion each year in health, education and productivity losses. Yet up to 60% of childhood hearing loss can be prevented through simple public health measures such as early screening and treating ear infections.In Georgia, progress is accelerating. With support from WHO and ATscale, the Global Partnership for Assistive Technology, the country is expanding access to hearing aids, cochlear implants and rehabilitation – vital steps towards lifelong hearing care. WHO continues to work with national partners to strengthen early detection, workforce training and awareness so that no one is left behind.If you or a loved one is experience hearing difficulties, seek professional help as soon as possible – early intervention changes lives. Learn more about hearing loss prevention via the links.

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26 November 2025

Sustaining Safety

“When we began, people said we were interfering in family matters. Now, women come to us because they believe they can shape their own futures.” This reflection from a woman working in one of Georgia’s crisis centres captures a profound shift taking place across the country.In communities where traditional norms and harmful stereotypes isolate women and deter them from seeking help, these centres have emerged as trusted lifelines. Women and girls who once faced abuse in silence now access safe spaces where they receive counselling, emotional support, legal assistance, and practical guidance, including the skills needed to rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.However, despite progress in policies and an increase in available services, gender-based violence (GBV) remains one of Georgia’s most serious human rights challenges. Deep-rooted patriarchal attitudes and discriminatory social norms continue to justify violence or silence victims. Nearly one in two women aged 15–69 has experienced some form of violence, and one in four has faced intimate partner violence. Between 2018 and 2022, 183 cases of murder and attempted murder of women were recorded, 66 of which were classified as femicides.Harmful practices also persist. 14 per cent of women aged 20-24 report having been married before turning 18, with the highest rates in ethnic minority communities, where cultural expectations intersect with socioeconomic vulnerabilities. Economic inequality further traps many women in abusive relationships, as gender pay gaps, limited access to financial resources, and the disproportionate burden of unpaid care work reduce their ability to leave violent situations.National ownership leading partnerships Recognizing the urgency of addressing GBV, the Government of Georgia has made prevention and survivor support a national priority. The UN in Georgia is helping to turn this commitment into concrete progress.Here, the UN Resident Coordinator (RC) plays a pivotal role. By bringing together government institutions, UN agencies, civil society organizations, and international partners, including the European Union and the Government of Sweden, the RC ensures that Georgia’s response to GBV is coordinated, comprehensive, and grounded in shared priorities. Under this unified approach, prevention, survivor support, legislative reform, and economic empowerment are treated as interconnected pillars of a single system rather than isolated initiatives.This coordinated approach was essential in the early expansion of services. UN Women, in collaboration with the State Care Agency, civil society partners, with funding from the European Union and the Government of Sweden, supported the creation of crisis centres and shelters across the country. Since 2010, five shelters and seven crisis centres have opened, each staffed by a psychologist, social worker, and lawyer providing far more than consultations. They offer emotional support, courtroom accompaniment, legal guidance, and vocational training, enabling survivors to rebuild their lives and regain autonomy. In 2023 alone, more than 500 women accessed psychological and legal support.Over time, these investments catalyzed a critical shift: full national ownership. The crisis centres and shelters that began as donor- and UN-supported initiatives are now fully financed by the Government of Georgia. This transition signals a major milestone in the country’s GBV response, showing that essential survivor services are not temporary programmes but durable components of Georgia’s social protection framework, laying the foundation for long-term sustainability.Despite progress, infrastructure gaps remain. With only 105 shelter beds nationwide, Georgia continues to fall well below the Council of Europe’s recommended standard of one bed per 10,000 residents. Continued investment will be essential to meet growing needs and ensure full accessibility for all women and girls. Building a stronger system of prevention Under the RC’s leadership, the UN in Georgia brings together UN Women, the UN Population Fund (UNFPA), and the UN Development Programme (UNDP) to strengthen national systems. This coordinated support integrates GBV prevention with access to justice, education, and employment. UN agencies also provide evidence-based research and data to inform policy decisions and improve targeting of resources.Prevention efforts have expanded significantly. Multilingual awareness campaigns now reach rural and ethnic minority communities, civil servants, educators, and youth, promoting available services and challenging harmful norms. A nationwide hotline operates 24/7 in eight languages, offering immediate, confidential assistance.With UN support, the State Legal Aid Service launched specialized legal assistance for GBV survivors in 2024. In its first year, it handled 36 cases, providing both legal consultations and courtroom representation, filling an essential gap for women unable to access justice.A new frontier: Confronting online violenceAs Georgia’s response to traditional forms of GBV strengthens, new threats are emerging in digital spaces. Women now face online harassment, image-based abuse, data leaks, and sexist hate speech, forms of violence that have severe offline repercussions, affecting mental health, safety, and participation in public life.To address this challenge, UNFPA launched an EU-funded knowledge-sharing platform in February 2025 to improve prevention and response to technology-facilitated GBV. Bringing together digital rights advocates, civil society, researchers, and policymakers, the platform represents an important step toward ensuring safer online environments for women and girls.Moving forward together“Georgia can rightly point to many achievements in women’s rights. Yet there remains an urgent need to prioritize gender equality and the empowerment of women to achieve transformative and sustainable change. This includes addressing gender-based violence and closing gender gaps in access to resources and decision-making,” emphasizes UN RC Didier Trebucq. “The United Nations remains committed to working with the government and our partners, securing dignity, safety, and equality for all women and girls.”Sustaining progress will require continued intersectoral partnerships, multilateral cooperation, and a collective commitment to building a culture rooted in empathy and equality. Expanding prevention efforts, increasing economic opportunities for women, and ensuring survivor-centered services, both offline and online, remain essential.Three decades after the Beijing Platform for Action, achieving gender equality in Georgia and around the world remains a work in progress. But it is within reach. By upholding Beijing’s vision and strengthening coordinated efforts today, Georgia can help build a future where every woman and girl lives free from fear and discrimination, fully exercises her rights, and realizes her potential.This article was originally published on the DCO website: https://un-dco.org/stories/sustaining-safety-georgia-strengthens-national-systems-protect-women-and-girls

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21 October 2025

How Georgia is Building Climate Resilience

Georgia’s breathtaking mountains and winding rivers represent its beauty but also its challenges. With more than 20,000 rivers cutting through steep terrain, the country faces increasing threats from floods, landslides, droughts and avalanches. Around 40 per cent of Georgians live in areas vulnerable to these natural hazards, and the risk continues to grow due to climate change.As the country experiences the rising toll of climate-induced hazards, it is responding with growing determination to adapt and build resilience.This national push is supported by the UN in Georgia, where Resident Coordinator (RC) Didier Trebucq ensures a coherent, forward-looking approach to climate resilience and disaster preparedness. The UN Country Team (UNCT) is leveraging collective expertise to ensure climate risks are addressed holistically across development, humanitarian and policy agendas. ImageCaption: Georgia is at risk of various types of hazards, such as floods, landslides, droughts, and avalanches, because of its abundance of rivers intersecting with steep terrains. Disaster management is therefore essential to help the country reduce losses.Photo: © RCORisk reduction in actionSupported by the United Nations and development partners, Georgia has transformed disaster risk reduction from a policy vision into practical, on-the-ground change. Early efforts focused on training local officials to interpret hazard maps, establishing flood warning systems, and organizing school evacuation drills.That groundwork paved the way for a significant leap forward in 2019: a seven-year, $74 million national resilience programme led by the government with support from the UN Development Programme (UNDP), the Green Climate Fund and the governments of Sweden and Switzerland. The programme targets 11 of Georgia’s most disaster-prone river basins, where new hydrometeorological networks, early warning systems and protective infrastructure now help safeguard lives, homes and livelihoods. The programme also strengthens local governance systems and technical institutions, embedding risk analysis into local planning. Beyond engineering, it invests in people, empowering communities through awareness campaigns, education, and hands-on training. When complete, the initiative will directly protect 1.7 million Georgians, nearly half the population.Georgia also adopted a national Hazard Zoning Roadmap in 2024, creating a unified system for safer land use planning and risk assessment. This milestone aligns with Georgia’s broader commitment to the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, reinforcing a shift from reaction to prevention, where preparedness becomes protection.Innovating for a changing climateWith strong policies in place, Georgia is harnessing innovation and digital tools to extend resilience from national institutions to local farms and villages.In Maradisi, a small farming community in Marneuli Municipality, where droughts, floods and harsh winters are becoming more frequent, climate-smart tools are essential. The Georgia Climate Services for Agriculture (GECSA) app, developed by UNDP in partnership with the Rural Development Agency and powered by the Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) advanced agrometeorological station, provides hyperlocal, real-time climate data directly to farmers’ phones.“With the right information, we can protect our crops, conserve water, and plan better for the future,” says Naira Paksadze, a member of the women-led Green Maradisi cooperative, which uses this data to optimise irrigation, anticipate pests, and plan planting cycles with greater accuracy. The cooperative’s success in blending innovation and inclusion also reflects Georgia’s commitment to gender-responsive climate action, where rural women are positioned not only as beneficiaries but as changemakers.This work reflects a broader shift led by RC Trebucq, placing actionable knowledge in the hands of the most vulnerable, whether it’s a smallholder farmer in Marneuli or a mountain rescue team in Oni.RC Trebucq noted, “The true measure of resilience isn't just in the infrastructure we build, but in the foresight and knowledge we put into the hands of those most affected by climate change. Our coordinated UN effort, from the GECSA app to rescue equipment, ensures that no Georgian is left behind in the face of climate change. Anticipating risk and taking early, preventive action is the foundation of effective disaster risk reduction.”ImageCaption: As part of its commitment to leaving no one behind, Georgia is positioning rural women as changemakers and not only beneficiaries.Photo: © RCO/Gela BedianashviliPreparedness as protectionAcross Georgia, preparedness is increasingly a whole-of-society effort. Volunteers in small villages serve as first responders, while schools across the country conduct regular evacuation drills using a child-friendly guide developed by the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and national authorities.In 2024, more than 3,800 people received training in disaster preparedness through UN-supported programmes. Approximately two-thirds were women. These initiatives ensure that when hazards strike, communities can act swiftly and confidently.Technology also plays a critical role. At the government’s request, the UN activated the International Charter on Space through the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and the UN Satellite Centre (UNOSAT). The Charter provided satellite imagery to help authorities assess damage and forecast future risks. In 2024, the UN Office of Project Services (UNOPS) in Georgia, in partnership with the European Union, completed a three-year project aimed at strengthening the Emergency Management Service under the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia. As part of the initiative, UNOPS procured advanced safety equipment and high-tech solutions, including emergency rescue and training tools, land, sea, and mountain search equipment, high-mobility and all-terrain vehicles, skiing gear, and drones designed for search and rescue operations.ImageCaption: Safety equipment and high-tech solutions, such as emergency rescue and training tools, are integral to Georgia's disaster management efforts. The Resident Coordinator and UN teams have been helping with procurement and implementation.Photo: © RCOInvesting in a safer futureGeorgia’s resilience journey, which spans from green technology in rural areas to improved mountain rescue capabilities, demonstrates the value of preparedness as an investment in the future. However, additional efforts are needed in public education, inclusive planning, infrastructure, early warning systems, data, and coordination to protect lives and sustain progress in the face of natural challenges. Building resilience before hazards materialise remains the most cost-effective strategy. It is also key to achieving Georgia’s commitments under the Paris Agreement, the Sendai Framework, and the Sustainable Development Goals.Under the 2026–2030 UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, the UN and Georgia prioritise climate resilience, early warning, and preparedness, aiming to equip all Georgians with the tools and knowledge to face a changing climate.This approach reflects the leadership vision of the Resident Coordinator, who has positioned climate resilience with the UNCT as a unifying thread across the UN’s development and humanitarian work.This story was originally published on the UN DCO website: https://un-dco.org/stories

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Press Release

26 January 2026

Cervical Cancer is preventable and curable

Cervical cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death among women in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, where it is associated with enormous personal distress, social disruption, and financial costs for women, their families, and the health systems. Caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), cervical cancer is the 5th most frequently diagnosed cancer among women in Georgia.Despite being preventable, it remains a major health issue in the country, where over 40% of women diagnosed are diagnosed in late (III and IV) stages. Most cervical cancer cases can be prevented by the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, and this disease is also curable if it is detected early and treated appropriately. The HPV vaccine is safe and effective in preventing cervical cancer. Achieving high rates of vaccination is key to eliminating cervical cancer in Georgia. I urge all those eligible to get vaccinated, to protect themselves and help protect their community” - said Dr. Silviu Domente, WHO Representative and the Head of WHO Country Office, Georgia.In November 2020 WHO launched the Global strategy to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer as a public health problem. It outlines three pillars of cervical cancer elimination – HPV vaccination, cervical screening, and treatment. All three pillars must be implemented collectively and at scale to achieve the goal of elimination.In recognition of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month WHO Georgia and UNFPA Georgia stress the importance of access to HPV immunization, quality screening and treatment of precancerous lesions to eliminate cervical cancer.“The cervical cancer screening programme was launched in Georgia in 2009, with the technical assistance of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). To make screening accessible to women living in remote areas, UNFPA, in cooperation with UN agencies and with the support of the European Union, is promoting the development of digital medicine in Georgia. HPV vaccination in certain age groups among both – young women and men, is also an important milestone in prevention of cervical cancer”- said Ms. Mariam Bandzeladze, Head of the UNFPA Georgia Country Office.Already we can highlight the following commitments in the areas of prevention, screening, treatment and data management with the support of WHO and UNFPA: Prevention: HPV vaccination is included in the national vaccination program (schedule), for girls 10-12 years old. In 2022 the Government of Georgia approved a “catch up” program for girls 13-18, while from 2023 the age of vaccination has increased to 46. Later, HPV Vaccination became available free for boys and men aged 10-26, while in January 2026 the age of vaccination for men has also increased to 46*.As of now, the vaccination programme includes:2-dose vaccination for girls of 10-12 with an interval of at least 6 months;3-dose vaccination for 13-46 years according to the following schedule: 0 - 2 - 6 months. The minimum interval between the first and second dose should be at least 1 month, and the minimum interval between the second and third dose should be at least 3 months.Screening: The national screening program provides cervical cancer screening free of charge for women between 25-60 across Georgia. Treatment: Evidence-based guidelines for treatment of cervical cancer have been developed. Data: The National Cancer Screening Registry was established to improve screening participation and data management. *HPV vaccination and cervical screening are free and available in primary health-care centers and national screening centers. Since 2025, a 9-valent HVP vaccine is available through the state program. This new vaccine protects against nine strains of human papillomavirus: 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58. For additional information, please contact the hotline of the National Center for Disease Control and Public Health (NCDC): 116 001

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Press Release

15 December 2025

Georgian Youth Call for Equal Opportunities

As part of the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, UNDP and the Embassy of Sweden in Georgia launched a dynamic discussion space for young people to explore how gender affects career choices and professional growth.Up to 50 high school students joined tech entrepreneurs, gender equality experts, and human resource professionals for the interactive event ‘Profession Has No Gender.’ Participants explored persistent stereotypes around professions labelled as ‘women’s work’ or ‘men’s work’, the role of women in driving economic development and digital progress, the impacts of discrimination across homes, schools, and workplaces, and practical ways to advance equality in the digital era.“I am encouraged by the energy, motivation, and vision of these young women and men as they prepare to shape their futures. The message from this vibrant new generation is loud and clear: they want an inclusive and fair society built on human rights and equality,” said Elisabet Brandberg, Head of Development Cooperation, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Sweden in Georgia.“Limiting women’s career choices is one of the most damaging ways to silence them in public life. Career decisions are not only about personal fulfilment. They are a pathway to financial independence and long-term security. Everyone should have the freedom and opportunity to pursue their own professional path, and where young people, women and men alike, are fully supported to thrive,” noted Douglas Webb, UNDP Resident Representative in Georgia.Facilitated by Elene Rukhadze (Foxy Eleniko), one of Georgia’s leading social media influencers, the event highlighted recent research on gender equality supported by the United Nations and Sweden. Participants also examined current trends in the private-sector job market and worked in groups to envision future professions and propose recommendations for education, employment, and more inclusive environments.Speakers included Nato Kvachantiradze, human capital expert; Mariam Gagua, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer at DwellUP; and Ana Lobzhanidze, UNDP Gender Advisor in Georgia.The discussion ‘Profession Has No Gender’ was organised within the Sweden-funded UN Joint Programme for Gender Equality.Gender Equality in GeorgiaRecent research, Men, Women, and Gender Relations in Georgia, commissioned by UNDP and UNFPA with support from Sweden, presents a mixed picture of public attitudes towards gender roles.Half of the respondents believe that women and men can be equally successful business leaders. Yet a notable gender gap persists: 20% more women than men share this view. Women’s confidence in female leadership has grown from 56% in 2019 to 62% in 2024, while men’s confidence has decreased from 54% to 44%. More men also now believe that men are better suited for business leadership.Attitudes toward women in political leadership are shifting towards equality. 62% of Georgians (71.6% of women and 51.8% of men) agree that greater female participation in politics would benefit the country.Views on gender roles vary significantly across generations. Among young adults (18–29), only 28.6% of women and 49% of men agree that a woman’s primary duty is to care for her family rather than pursue professional development. But this belief becomes more common with age.BackgroundThe Sweden-funded UN Joint Programme for Gender Equality tackles gender disparities across Georgia—from political and economic participation to sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender-based violence, and harmful practices. The programme is implemented jointly by UNDP, UNFPA, and UN Women.

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Press Release

09 December 2025

Georgia and United Nations Sign a New Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2026–2030

The Government of Georgia and the United Nations (UN) signed today the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2026–2030.The new Cooperation Framework will guide the strategic partnership between the Government and the United Nations to advance sustainable development in Georgia in the next five years. Under this umbrella, 21 UN agencies, funds and programmes will work together to support Georgia in four key areas of cooperation: promoting inclusive economic growth and green transition; strengthening education, health, and social protection systems; advancing good governance, human rights, and social cohesion; and fostering peace and resilience across dividing lines.The new Cooperation Framework was signed by Irakli Kobakhidze, Prime Minister of Georgia, on behalf of the Government of Georgia, and Didier Trebucq, UN Resident Coordinator in Georgia, on behalf of the UN Country Team.In his opening remarks, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze thanked the United Nations in Georgia for continued partnership and support. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to fostering sustainable development.Speaking at the signing ceremony, Levan Zhorzholiani, Head of Administration of the Government, noted that the new Cooperation Framework is designed to contribute directly to the national development priorities. “ Today marks a new milestone in over thirty years of long-standing, deep partnership between Georgia and the United Nations,” said Didier Trebucq, UN Resident Coordinator in Georgia. “The Cooperation Framework we sign today is a pledge we share with the Government of Georgia and all partners for decisive reforms to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. This cooperation framework offers to All a platform for action to work together. Its goal is to promote green and inclusive development, with the aim to reduce inequalities between urban and rural areas.” The Framework was developed by the United Nations and the Government through an inclusive, participatory process involving consultations with the civil society, private sector, youth representatives, academia, and development partners. With an estimated budget of USD 262 million, the Framework will be implemented over five years through joint programmes, innovative financing, and strengthened partnerships among national and international partners.The signing ceremony brought together representatives of the Government, United Nations, the diplomatic community, civil society organizations, private sector and other stakeholders.

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Press Release

30 October 2025

Winter School for Youth: Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials!

Within the framework of the European Union and UN joint project “Human Rights for All”, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) are announcing applications for the Winter School on Human Rights.The Winter School will take place from 1–5 December 2025.What will you learn at the Winter School?The importance of human rights in everyday life.Human rights protection institutions, their roles, and challenges.How to create an inclusive and diverse environment where everyone’s voice is heard equally.Freedom of expression – how to protect your own voice and respect others’.The protection of privacy and the importance of personal data.Active citizenship and building a democratic society.The program includes lectures, discussions, presentations, and group exercises. Participants will also have the opportunity to improve their communication and presentation skills through practical exercises.Who can participate?The Winter School is open to students and graduates of accredited higher education institutions in Georgia in the fields of law, social sciences, political sciences, and humanities, who: Are fluent in the state language;Are between 18 and 26 years old;Are ready to attend the full program.Participation from students and graduates of regional universities are encouraged to apply.How to apply?Interested youth must complete the registration form and submit a CV and a motivation letter (maximum 300 words). The motivation letter should describe your experience in the field of human rights, why you want to participate in the school, and how you plan to use the knowledge gained.The deadline for applications is 10 November 2025.Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a certificate of participation.Participants’ transportation and accommodation will be fully covered by the organizers. Departure is on November 30, with return to Tbilisi on December 6.For any questions, please contact Ketevan Mezvrishvili: ketevan.mezvrishvili@un.org

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Press Release

24 October 2025

UN Day Celebration in Tbilisi

The United Nations in Georgia marked UN Day 2025 and the 80th anniversary of the signing of the UN Charter with a special event held in Tbilisi. The celebration brought together youth representatives, members of the Government of Georgia, international and national partners, and UN colleagues.The event opened with remarks by Didier Trebucq, UN Resident Coordinator in Georgia, and Lasha Darsalia, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia. A highlight of the celebration was the Youth Talk titled “Building Our Future Together Towards 2030,” moderated by Marekhi Gvaramadze, Co-Founder of Kant’s Academy. The panel featured four inspiring young leaders from diverse fields, including technology, education, and environmental advocacy: Etuna Asanashvili, Youth Climate Activist; Nodar Ivanidze, General Partner of Steppe & Stone Capital; co-founder of Global Tech Weekend; Lizi Lomidze, Representative of the organization Helping Hand, 2024 National Volunteer Award winner; and Giorgi Moistsraphishvili,FLEX Alumni Coordinator. They shared their vision for a sustainable and inclusive future. Each speaker reflected on their personal journey, highlighting how youth-led initiatives can drive tangible change in communities. The conversation also emphasized the importance of cross-sector partnerships, mentorship, and the role of digital transformation in shaping equitable opportunities for all.The event also featured a photo exhibition tracing more than thirty years of UN–Georgia partnership. Through a series of powerful images, the exhibition illustrated the UN’s contribution to development and people's well-being, offering a visual record of shared progress and collaboration.As part of the commemoration, the Tbilisi TV Tower was illuminated in UN blue, a symbolic gesture organized by the UN in Georgia with support from the Tbilisi Mayor’s Office. 📺 Watch the full event: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/17aBpjYgFM/ About UN DayUnited Nations Day is observed each year on 24 October to commemorate the entry into force of the UN Charter in 1945. Over the past 80 years, the United Nations has worked with countries and communities worldwide to promote peace, protect human rights, and foster sustainable development—advancing a shared vision of a better future for everyone.

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