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The Sustainable Development Goals 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:
Publication
12 January 2026
United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2026-2030
The 2026-2030 United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) represents a joint commitment of the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) to support the country’s sustainable development priorities in alignment with the 2030 Agenda.Under this framework, 21 UN agencies, funds, and programmes will work collectively to support Georgia across four strategic areas: promoting inclusive economic growth and a 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—ensuring that no one is left behind.
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Video
09 December 2025
United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2026–2030 Signing Ceremony
The Government of Georgia and the United Nations signed the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2026–2030 in Tbilisi, marking a new milestone.
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Publication
27 April 2026
UN Georgia Annual Report 2025
The UN in Georgia Annual Report 2025 highlights the collective achievements of the UN Country Team in advancing Georgia’s national development priorities and accelerating progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In 2025, the UN’s wide-ranging efforts covered critical areas of Georgia’s sustainable development, from enhancing people’s well-being, empowering women and youth, to strengthening institutions and communities, expanding inclusive economic opportunities, and fostering green transition.
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Story
18 May 2026
United for Sustainable Progress
It also marked the final year of the 2021–2025 UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework — a five-year partnership between Georgia and the United Nations focused on improving people’s lives and supporting inclusive development across the country.As Georgia continued to face economic changes, social transformation, and regional challenges, the United Nations worked closely with government institutions, civil society, local communities, and development partners to help create fair and sustainable opportunities for everyone.In the report’s foreword, UN Resident Coordinator Didier Trebucq described 2025 as “a pivotal year for the partnership between Georgia and the United Nations.” He emphasized the importance of cooperation, open dialogue, and inclusive development, highlighting the UN’s role as a trusted partner that brings different groups together to find solutions and support joint action.The report highlights progress made under the 2021–2025 Cooperation Framework, especially in democratic governance, human rights, social inclusion, economic resilience, and climate action. Throughout the year, UN agencies supported reforms aimed at strengthening public institutions, improving access to quality services, promoting human rights, and creating more opportunities for women and young people.Strengthening governance and protecting human rights remained key priorities. Programmes focused on building accountable institutions, improving access to justice, supporting women’s participation in decision-making, and encouraging democratic governance. Civil society organizations, municipalities, and public institutions worked together to increase transparency and citizen participation, especially among women and youth. The report stresses that strong institutions are essential for long-term stability, public trust, and inclusive development.Improving access to essential services also remained central to the UN’s work. In remote regions and vulnerable communities, UN agencies supported better healthcare, education, and social protection systems. Inclusive and gender-sensitive approaches helped ensure that persons with disabilities, children, women, and marginalized groups were not left behind. These efforts reflected the UN’s broader commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals and international human rights standards.Economic resilience was another major focus throughout the year. The UN supported entrepreneurship, innovation, local development, and inclusive economic opportunities to help ensure that economic growth improved people’s daily lives. Youth employment, women’s economic empowerment, digital transformation, and support for green businesses became important priorities across many programmes.Special attention was given to vulnerable and conflict-affected communities. Through targeted programmes, the UN helped strengthen social protection systems, support livelihoods, and build long-term resilience. Efforts focused on dignity, inclusion, and sustainable support for internally displaced persons and communities living near administrative boundary lines. Beyond addressing immediate needs, these initiatives aimed to strengthen trust and community resilience over time.At the same time, the UN continued supporting Georgia’s environmental and climate goals through green development initiatives and climate policy assistance. From sustainable natural resource management to climate resilience and green transition programmes, environmental sustainability has become increasingly linked to social and economic development. Support for climate policy, sustainable agriculture, and environmental protection reflected Georgia’s growing commitment to greener development pathways.Among the key achievements supported by the UN system in 2025 were:Georgia adopted its most ambitious climate commitment to date through the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0), increasing the country’s target from a 35 percent to a 47 percent net greenhouse gas reduction by 2030 compared to 1990 levels.Food safety governance improved with the adoption of the Law on Food Loss and Waste Reduction and Food Donation, along with a new Food Safety Strategy and Food Waste Management Concept.Important legal and policy reforms were introduced to prevent early marriage, strengthen parental leave policies, expand gender-responsive and child-rights-based budgeting, and improve access to justice. In total, 1,511 vulnerable individuals received legal aid services. Beyond the achievements and policy reforms, however, the report’s greatest success may have been collaboration itself. More than 21 UN entities worked together with the Government of Georgia, municipalities, civil society organizations, academia, development partners, and the private sector throughout the year. The new 2026–2030 Cooperation Framework was also developed through consultations with more than 300 stakeholders across the country, reflecting a strong commitment to making future development efforts more inclusive, participatory, and responsive to people’s needs.The report concludes that strong partnerships and a continued commitment to human rights, equality, and sustainability remain essential to ensuring that no one is left behind in Georgia’s development journey.
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Story
28 April 2026
Delivering Results Together for Georgia
The Government of Georgia and the United Nations in Georgia jointly organized the first annual meeting of the Joint Steering Committee of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2026-2030. The Joint Steering Committee provides strategic oversight for the development and implementation of the Cooperation Framework, ensuring strong national ownership and alignment with Georgia’s development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).The meeting was co-chaired by Zviad Barkaia, Deputy Head of the Administration of the Government of Georgia, and Didier Trebucq, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Georgia.In his remarks, Zviad Barkaia, Deputy Head of the Administration of the Government of Georgia, noted that the meeting marked the beginning of a new phase of strategic collaboration between the Government of Georgia and the United Nations. He emphasized that the UNSDCF 2026–2030 reflects national interests and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals.The UN Resident Coordinator, Didier Trebucq, stated: “The Cooperation Framework we are now implementing reflects an increased level of ambition. It responds to Georgia’s national priorities and to a rapidly evolving global context, while reaffirming our shared commitment to accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Achieving this ambition will require us not only to deliver better results, but also to work differently—through stronger partnerships, more integrated approaches, and innovative funding and financing modalities that can unlock scale and systemic impact.”Ana Zec, Head of the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, presented key UN achievements in 2025 across five priority areas of the UNSDCF 2021–2025, including effective, transparent, and accountable institutions; equal and inclusive access to quality services; inclusive economic growth and human capital development; human security and resilience; and environmental protection and climate action. The UN Resident Coordinator, together with the co-chairs of the UNSDCF Results Groups: Mamuka Meskhi (Assistant FAO Representative in Georgia), Kaori Ishikawa (UN Women Country Representative in Georgia and Liaison for the South Caucasus), Giorgi Kalakashvili (UNICEF Child Rights Monitoring Specialist), and Douglas Webb (UNDP Resident Representative in Georgia), with participation of Deputy Ministers and UN Heads of Agencies, presented the Joint Workplan for 2026–2027. They outlined the four result areas of the UNSDCF 2026–2030: Inclusive growth, green transition and climate resilience; Education, health and social protection; Governance, human rights and gender equality; and an enabling environment for peace. Participants discussed planned interventions, resource allocation across four thematic areas and strategic priorities for future action.The meeting was attended by government representatives and members of the UN Country Team. The outcome of the meeting is the agreement on the Workplan for 2026-2027 for the four outcomes under the UNSDCF 2026-2030.For the UN Georgia Annual Report 2025, please click here.
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Story
10 March 2026
Georgia paves the way for better support services for women survivors of violence
Justice for all women and girls must be delivered in law, in budgets, in institutions, in real life. Justice is not built by institutions alone. This is why every effort to improve access to justice is so important. Women survivors of violence in Georgia continue to face barriers in accessing essential services, and UN Women, together with its partners, is working to expand a nationwide network of crisis centres offering legal assistance, psychological counselling, social workers’ support and vital information to help survivors break the cycle of violence. To date, nine crisis centres have been opened across the country, improving access to justice and support for survivors.“I was experiencing panic attacks, and my doctor suggested I see a psychologist. I started looking for a specialist nearby, as travelling to Tbilisi would require additional time and money. That is how I found the Akhmeta Crisis Centre, where I have been receiving free psychological counselling for the past six months. I feel much better now; this support has been a great relief for me,” says Tamar Macharashvili*, a survivor of domestic violence.According to the 2022 National Study on Violence against Women in Georgia, conducted by UN Women and Geostat, seven in ten women who experience intimate partner violence report at least one psychological symptom, showing the lasting mental-health impact of domestic violence.Macharashvili, 56, lives in the village of Duisi in the Akhmeta Municipality and has two children. Although she divorced nearly 15 years ago, she continues to struggle with the trauma she suffered while married. The staff of the Akhmeta Crisis Centre have become her main supporters, as she is one of the 43 survivors assisted there so far. Launched in early 2024, the Centre was established by UN Women and Sweden and operates in partnership with the Sakartvelo Regional Empowerment Foundation (SREF).“Along with measures to prevent violence against women and girls, improving the quality of services and expanding access for survivors of violence remains one of the key challenges in combating
violence against women in Georgia. This is why UN Women, together with the national and local authorities, development partners, and private sectors, continues to strengthen and widen the network of shelters and crisis centres across the country,” stated Kaori Ishikawa, UN Women Country Representative in Georgia and Liaison for the South Caucasus.Of the nine crisis centres now operating in Georgia, seven are managed by the state and two by local non-governmental organizations.Akhmeta Crisis Centre, a space of solidarityThe Akhmeta Crisis Centre provides legal counselling, psychological services and social-worker support to women across the municipality. It also works to raise awareness about preventing and responding to violence against women and domestic violence, and it informs women about available services and empowerment opportunities. A child-friendly room allows mothers to safely leave their children while receiving support.A child-friendly room at the Akhmeta Crisis Centre. Photo: UN Georgia/Gela Bedianashvili.“More and more women are speaking out about the violence they have experienced and are asking for help. The Centre has become a space of solidarity, enabling many women to escape violence and rebuild their lives,” says Iza Bekauri, the Head of SREF, which operates the Centre.“I have personally sheltered many women in my own home, and I always hoped that Akhmeta would one day have a comfortable space tailored to the needs of local women. When I was offered the chance to open a crisis centre, I enthusiastically agreed. After its opening, word spread quickly, and many women began using our services."Iza Bekauri, Head of the Sakartvelo Regional Empowerment Foundation Today, the Akhmeta Crisis Centre receives five to seven women each month. Bekauri notes that some women choose not to register officially as beneficiaries while seeking assistance. “Unfortunately, due to a lack of income and own housing, many women continue to stay in abusive relationships and endure violence,” she says. “In such cases, they need empowerment, economic and emotional support, just to know that they are not alone and that we stand by their side.”Social norms and stigma continue to silence survivorsWhile reporting rates of violence against women have risen in Georgia, many women - both in Akhmeta Municipality and nationwide - remain silent due to discriminatory social norms. According to the National Study, more than one third - 38.2 per cent - of women who have survived physical and/or sexual partner violence have never told anyone about their experiences.Macharashvili explains that while she receives psychological counselling, the Centre’s staff also guide women who need legal advice. “For women who need legal support, the staff explain the laws, help them understand their rights, and encourage them to find a solution.”“I am grateful that women know that no matter how difficult their situation is, they can come to us and count on our support,” Bekauri concludes.The Akhmeta Crisis Centre was established within the UN Joint Programme for Gender Equality (UNJP4GE) and continues to operate under this framework._______* Name, surname, age and place of residence have been changed to protect privacy.
violence against women in Georgia. This is why UN Women, together with the national and local authorities, development partners, and private sectors, continues to strengthen and widen the network of shelters and crisis centres across the country,” stated Kaori Ishikawa, UN Women Country Representative in Georgia and Liaison for the South Caucasus.Of the nine crisis centres now operating in Georgia, seven are managed by the state and two by local non-governmental organizations.Akhmeta Crisis Centre, a space of solidarityThe Akhmeta Crisis Centre provides legal counselling, psychological services and social-worker support to women across the municipality. It also works to raise awareness about preventing and responding to violence against women and domestic violence, and it informs women about available services and empowerment opportunities. A child-friendly room allows mothers to safely leave their children while receiving support.A child-friendly room at the Akhmeta Crisis Centre. Photo: UN Georgia/Gela Bedianashvili.“More and more women are speaking out about the violence they have experienced and are asking for help. The Centre has become a space of solidarity, enabling many women to escape violence and rebuild their lives,” says Iza Bekauri, the Head of SREF, which operates the Centre.“I have personally sheltered many women in my own home, and I always hoped that Akhmeta would one day have a comfortable space tailored to the needs of local women. When I was offered the chance to open a crisis centre, I enthusiastically agreed. After its opening, word spread quickly, and many women began using our services."Iza Bekauri, Head of the Sakartvelo Regional Empowerment Foundation Today, the Akhmeta Crisis Centre receives five to seven women each month. Bekauri notes that some women choose not to register officially as beneficiaries while seeking assistance. “Unfortunately, due to a lack of income and own housing, many women continue to stay in abusive relationships and endure violence,” she says. “In such cases, they need empowerment, economic and emotional support, just to know that they are not alone and that we stand by their side.”Social norms and stigma continue to silence survivorsWhile reporting rates of violence against women have risen in Georgia, many women - both in Akhmeta Municipality and nationwide - remain silent due to discriminatory social norms. According to the National Study, more than one third - 38.2 per cent - of women who have survived physical and/or sexual partner violence have never told anyone about their experiences.Macharashvili explains that while she receives psychological counselling, the Centre’s staff also guide women who need legal advice. “For women who need legal support, the staff explain the laws, help them understand their rights, and encourage them to find a solution.”“I am grateful that women know that no matter how difficult their situation is, they can come to us and count on our support,” Bekauri concludes.The Akhmeta Crisis Centre was established within the UN Joint Programme for Gender Equality (UNJP4GE) and continues to operate under this framework._______* Name, surname, age and place of residence have been changed to protect privacy.
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Story
03 March 2026
UNFPA and Ecobrands join forces to support women survivors of violence
March is Women’s Month - a time to reaffirm that every woman and girl has the right to live in a safe environment, free from violence, coercion, and all forms of discrimination. In this spirit, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Georgia and EcoBrands are joining forces to support women survivors of violence and their children. In celebration of the 100th anniversary of Weleda Skin Food, from 3 March until the end of the year, a portion of the proceeds from each product sold will be donated to a shelter operated by the National Network for Protection Against Violence. “This initiative represents both an expression of solidarity and a strong example of private sector social responsibility. It contributes to supporting women and girls who have experienced violence by helping ensure access to psychological, legal, and reproductive health services. We welcome this partnership with EcoBrands and look forward to continuing our joint efforts toward advancing women’s empowerment,” says Nana Avaliani, Gender Analyst at UNFPA.According to Natia Chincharauli, Executive Director of EcoBrands, throughout its 28 years of operation in Georgia, the company has consistently implemented various social responsibility initiatives. “As our company grows, we are committed to doing even more. Introducing Weleda to Georgia was driven by our desire to promote healthy products and lifestyles. We are proud to partner with an organization that works toward real, tangible change and delivers meaningful support to those who truly need it,” says Natia Chincharauli. The collaboration between UNFPA and EcoBrands highlights the critical role of partnerships with the private sector in addressing social challenges and ensuring that no one is left behind - especially women survivors of violence and their children. UNFPA continues to work with partners to prevent and respond to violence, mobilize resources, and implement joint initiatives aimed at achieving tangible change.
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Story
03 February 2026
“Fathers’ School” in Batumi – a space for fathers to learn and grow
“I think I am a normal father and a husband who is also involved in household chores. However, I realise that more is needed from me - as a family member, a husband, and a father - for this responsibility to be distributed more fairly” - says Archil Todua, 38, a participant in “Fathers’ School.”Archil is the father of three. His eldest child is 12 years old; the middle child is 9, and the youngest is 3. According to him, there is no space in Zugdidi where fathers can share their experiences with one another. That is why he decided to come to the “Fathers’ School” in Batumi - to better understand the responsibilities of being a father and a husband. Archil Todua. Photo: Irakli Dzneladze/UNFPA “My eldest boy is already at an age where he is no longer a child - he will soon be a teenager - and I need to rethink many things. That is why I want to gain new knowledge and experience from others ” - says Archil.The “Fathers’ School” is an initiative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), which since 2021 has brought together more than 200 men in Tbilisi and western Georgia around one main idea to become more caring fathers and actively participate in the daily lives of their children.“Sometimes I think that something is right, that it is correct, but it may not be. I want to gain a new perspective that will be very useful for my children in the future and bring more novelty, joy, and happiness to the father–son relationship” - says Gocha Meladze, 45, another participant in the Batumi “Fathers’ School.”Through his participation in the school, the father of three children aims to acquire new skills and further develop those he believes he already has:“I am very close to my children. This is my deeply personal choice, something that comes from within. I advise all fathers to spend more time with their children, ask them more questions about their needs, feelings, and emotions. Hug their children often and tell them that they love them.”According to the latest study "Men, Women and Gender Relations in Georgia (IMAGES)", 81% of men in Georgia believe that fatherhood is the most important role in a man’s life. Yet, daily childcare continues to fall largely on mothers.Studies also confirm that one of the key prerequisites for harmonious family life is the equal involvement of mothers and fathers in the daily lives of children."I joined the school with great enthusiasm and interest, because I believe it is very important to share the experiences of fathers like me. I am learning positive parenting and trying to do everything so that my child becomes a good citizen. I invest a lot of time and effort in this” - notes Sulkhan Meskhidze from Batumi, who saw many similar challenges while listening to others’
stories.Sulkhan, father of a six-year-old, has been actively involved in his child’s life since birth. However, he worries about the stereotype-filled environment in which the child is growing up.“The school and kindergarten are full of stereotypes, which I don’t like - things like colors for girls and boys, or the idea that certain work is only for women and other work only for men. I don’t want my child to feel confused. I teach him to be civil and tolerant, but then he goes to school or kindergarten to face a very different reality. That worries me a lot” - he says.Levan Kokaia, 40, the father of nine-year-old Elene and six-year-old Salome, attended the “Fathers’ School” in Tbilisi. Salome was diagnosed with autism spectrum traits a few years ago. It was at the “Fathers’ School” that Levan realized he was not alone in facing this challenge as a parent.“The meetings were full of positive emotions. Of course, they make you reflect on many things - on how to become a more active father” - he says, adding that "the more time you devote to something - whether music, a field of science, or a person - the more you learn. Relationships with children work the same way.” Levan Kokaia with her spouse. Photo: Mika Dzidziguri/UNFPA Levan also encourages other parents, despite the challenges, to manage their emotions - especially when they are alone - because their moods are passed on to their children and affect family harmony.---------This material is produced in the framework of the “EU 4 Gender Equality: Together against gender stereotypes and gender-based violence" programme (phase II), funded by the European Union, implemented jointly by UN Women and UNFPA. Its contents are the sole responsibility of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union
stories.Sulkhan, father of a six-year-old, has been actively involved in his child’s life since birth. However, he worries about the stereotype-filled environment in which the child is growing up.“The school and kindergarten are full of stereotypes, which I don’t like - things like colors for girls and boys, or the idea that certain work is only for women and other work only for men. I don’t want my child to feel confused. I teach him to be civil and tolerant, but then he goes to school or kindergarten to face a very different reality. That worries me a lot” - he says.Levan Kokaia, 40, the father of nine-year-old Elene and six-year-old Salome, attended the “Fathers’ School” in Tbilisi. Salome was diagnosed with autism spectrum traits a few years ago. It was at the “Fathers’ School” that Levan realized he was not alone in facing this challenge as a parent.“The meetings were full of positive emotions. Of course, they make you reflect on many things - on how to become a more active father” - he says, adding that "the more time you devote to something - whether music, a field of science, or a person - the more you learn. Relationships with children work the same way.” Levan Kokaia with her spouse. Photo: Mika Dzidziguri/UNFPA Levan also encourages other parents, despite the challenges, to manage their emotions - especially when they are alone - because their moods are passed on to their children and affect family harmony.---------This material is produced in the framework of the “EU 4 Gender Equality: Together against gender stereotypes and gender-based violence" programme (phase II), funded by the European Union, implemented jointly by UN Women and UNFPA. Its contents are the sole responsibility of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union
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Press Release
03 May 2026
The UN Secretary-General's Message on World Press Freedom Day
People often say that in war, truth is the first casualty.But far too frequently, the first casualties are the journalists who risk everything to report that truth – not only in war, but wherever those in power fear scrutiny.Across the globe, media workers risk censorship, surveillance, legal harassment – and even death.Recent years have seen a sharp rise in the number of journalists killed – often deliberately targeted – in war zones.Eighty-five percent of the crimes committed against journalists go uninvestigated and unpunished: an unacceptable level of impunity.Economic pressures, new technologies, and active manipulation are also putting press freedom under unprecedented strain.When access to reliable information erodes, mistrust takes root.When public debate is distorted, social cohesion weakens.
And when journalism is undermined, crises become far more difficult to prevent and resolve.All freedom depends on press freedom.Without it, there can be no human rights, no sustainable development – and no peace.On this World Press Freedom Day, let us protect the rights of journalists, and build a world where the truth – and truth-tellers – are safe.
And when journalism is undermined, crises become far more difficult to prevent and resolve.All freedom depends on press freedom.Without it, there can be no human rights, no sustainable development – and no peace.On this World Press Freedom Day, let us protect the rights of journalists, and build a world where the truth – and truth-tellers – are safe.
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Press Release
07 March 2026
The Secretary-General's Message on International Women's Day
This year’s International Women’s Day focuses on rights, action and justice for all women and girls. Worldwide, women hold just 64 per cent of the legal rights enjoyed by men.Legal discrimination can shape every aspect of a woman’s life. She may be prevented from owning property, seeking a divorce, or taking a job without her husband’s permission. In more than 40 countries, marital rape is not recognized as a crime. Other laws restrict women’s access to education, their ability to pass on citizenship to their children, or even their freedom of movement outside the home.Where legal protections do exist, discrimination and weak enforcement mean women still struggle to access courts and legal support.Many of these unjust laws have been on the books for centuries. But today, we are also witnessing a dangerous new trend. Amid rising authoritarianism, growing political instability, and a renewed push to entrench patriarchy, hard-won advances are being rolled back — from fairer work protections to sexual and reproductive rights.We must unite to deliver on the promise of the Sustainable Development Goals and the Beijing+30 Action Agenda. By fighting discriminatory laws and practices — and defending the progress already achieved — we can ensure the dignity, opportunity and freedom all women deserve.When we are not equal under the law, we are not equal. It is time to make justice a reality for women and girls, everywhere.
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Press Release
06 March 2026
International Women’s Day: Eight Actions for A More Equal World
Over nearly a decade leading the United Nations, I have seen our world repeatedly tested – by climate shocks, deepening poverty, violent conflict and shrinking civic space. But I have also watched many solutions take root, and they shared one common denominator: women.As the world marks International Women’s Day, it is time to recognize that gender inequality is the greatest human rights challenge of our time – and advancing equality is one of the strongest drivers of sustainable development and peace.Here are eight actions drawn from my own experience, and inspired by the work of the UN system and civil society movements across the globe, to advance women’s rights and deliver results.1. Fix the Power GapGender equality is a question of power. But male-dominated institutions still shape our world. A rising tide of authoritarianism is deepening these inequalities, rolling back hard-won protections – from fair work practices to reproductive rights – and entrenching racial and gender biases that hold women back. Gender equality lifts societies. When power is shared, freedom expands.2. Make Parity a Priority Women are grossly under-represented in governments and boardrooms across the globe. At the United Nations, we set out to make gender parity a priority, starting with senior leadership. We did this by widening the search for qualified candidates, not by lowering standards. The UN is stronger for it, with an enhanced workplace culture and more inclusive decision-making. The lesson is clear. When institutions choose equality, results follow.3. Bet on the Highest-Return Investment Investment in women delivers outsized returns. Every dollar spent on girls’ education yields nearly triple the gains, while maternal health and family planning generate more than eightfold benefits. Policies that support families such as child care and elder care strengthen communities and unlock even more growth. Taken together, such steps lay the foundation for closing gender gaps – which can boost national income by as much as 20%.4. Make Room at the Peace TablePeace agreements are more durable when women take part in negotiating and implementing them. Yet in too many conflicts – including Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan – women have been largely shut out of the room, even though they carry the heaviest burdens of war. At a time of rising instability, inclusion is not symbolic – it is a shortcut to stabilize our fractured world.5. End Legal Discrimination Worldwide, women hold only 64 per cent of the legal rights enjoyed by men. In too many places, they cannot own property, work freely, or seek a divorce. Even where protections exist, women face higher barriers to access legal aid or the courts. Every country must commit to dismantling discriminatory laws, and to enforcing rights in practice. 6. Zero Tolerance for Gender-Based Violence – and Zero ExcusesViolence against women is a global emergency, rooted in inequality and sustained by silence. Every woman and girl has the right to live free from fear. Yet gender-based violence – including sexual exploitation and abuse – remains a horrific breach of trust and humanity. We must confront it everywhere, with zero tolerance, full accountability, and unwavering support for survivors. 7. Code Out BiasWith women comprising just one in four tech workers, bias is being hardwired into the systems that shape daily lives. Meanwhile, misogyny is exploding online. Technology companies and governments must act together to build safe, inclusive digital spaces – and the world must do more to remove barriers for girls in science and technology.8. Put Gender in the Climate Plan Climate change is sexist. Women often eat last in food crises and endure greater danger in emergencies. Girls face higher risks of child marriage when livelihoods collapse. But women are also leading climate solutions – advancing green legislation, powering global movements, and driving change on the ground. A liveable planet demands gender-responsive climate policies, including equal access to green jobs, better protection in emergencies, and full participation in environmental decision-making.Across the globe, I have seen these eight solutions in action – in war zones and recovery efforts, parliaments and classrooms, organizations and communities.If leaders get serious about gender equality and commit to them now, we will change the world – for women and girls, and for us all.
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Press Release
04 March 2026
Stepping Up Decent Jobs and Social Protection in Georgia
The United Nations and the World Bank have joined forces with the Government of Georgia to advance key employment and social protection reforms that will support inclusive growth, strengthen resilience, and promote shared prosperity across the country. The launch of the joint programme “Escaping the Middle-Income Trap through Decent and Productive Jobs and Social Protection” gathered representatives from the Government of Georgia, civil society, the private sector, and research and academic institutions, where partners reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the country in strengthening its institutions and expanding opportunities for all.This multi-agency programme will be implemented by the World Bank, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and UNICEF, with strategic coordination and support from the Office of the United Nations Resident Coordinator. The Ministry of Internally Displaced Persons from the Occupied Territories, Labour, Health and Social Affairs of Georgia will serve as the main national partner and beneficiary. The Programme is made possible through the support of the UN SDG Fund and the World Bank Social Protection Response Umbrella Trust Fund. The initiative aims to:strengthen Georgia’s unemployment insurance system,improve activation measures and support labour market integration for vulnerable groups,enhance active labour market policies, andadvance job‑matching services through artificial intelligence and data-driven tools.“The United Nations Country Team is a strong supporter of inclusive and sustainable development in Georgia that leaves no one behind,” said Didier Trebucq, UN Resident Coordinator in Georgia. “This Joint Programme reflects a unique partnership between UN entities, the World Bank, and the Government to accelerate much-needed systemic reforms, promote decent work opportunities, and strengthen comprehensive social protection systems. Together, we are committed to delivering tangible and lasting benefits for all people in Georgia.”“Strong employment and social protection systems are essential to building human capital and boosting productivity which are pre-requisites for Georgia to transform its economic growth into sustained prosperity,” said Rolande Pryce, World Bank Regional Director for the South Caucasus. “By working together, we are leveraging global expertise to generate the evidence and policy solutions Georgia needs to achieve its objectives to expand decent and productive jobs, strengthen social protection, and better prepare people, especially women and youth, for future work.”The Programme represents an effective example of multilateral cooperation aimed at improving outcomes for workers seeking decent employment, women balancing care and work responsibilities, young people entering the labour market, and vulnerable groups, including internally displaced persons.Running until 2027, the initiative will bring together various expertise and support investment in Georgia’s human capital. Continued coordination and inclusive social dialogue will be essential for maintaining reform momentum and achieving sustainable, long-term impact.
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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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