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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
01 June 2026
Cleaner Air for Georgia
Georgia is strengthening its fight against air pollution with ten modern monitoring stations that provide real-time data on air quality and pollution sources. Supported by the European Union and the United Nations in partnership with Georgia’s National Environmental Agency, the expanding network will help protect public health, guide environmental policy, and improve access to reliable air quality information across the country.Five stations are already operating in Rustavi, Poti, Zestaponi, Zemo Sakara, and Ozurgeti, while five more will be installed in Bolnisi, Gori, Sighnaghi, Borjomi, and Chiatura by the end of 2026.Using modern technology, the stations measure various types of air pollution, including fine dust particles (PM2.5), traffic and fuel combustion emissions (NO₂), industrial emissions (SO₂), and carbon monoxide (CO) produced by incomplete fuel combustion.This detailed monitoring measures air quality at a specific location and time while also providing real-time information about pollution sources.On 29 May, representatives of the European Union, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the National Environmental Agency visited one of the monitoring stations installed at the public school in the village of Tazaqendi near Rustavi.The guests observed how the monitoring stations operate and discussed future steps to expand the network and improve public access to air quality data.“The European Union strengthens Georgia’s ability to monitor pollution, identify its sources, and protect communities, especially in high-risk areas. Cleaner air means healthier people, lower healthcare costs, and a better quality of life for everyone,” said Nicholas Cendrowicz, Head of Cooperation at the European Union Delegation to Georgia.“Reliable air quality data is essential for effective action. These monitoring stations provide real-time information on pollution levels and help identify where pollution is coming from, whether from traffic, industry, heating, or dust. The data informs decisions that protect people’s health and the environment,” noted Douglas Webb, UNDP Resident Representative in Georgia. “Over the past decade, Georgia has expanded and modernised its air quality monitoring network in line with national legislation and international standards. Our priority is to strengthen air quality management across the country through better data, targeted action, and greater public awareness, ultimately creating a healthier environment for all citizens,” said Tamar Sharashidze, First Deputy Head of the National Environmental Agency.The visit concluded at Tazaqendi Public School, where guests met with teachers and students to discuss how environmental education and hands-on experience equip young people with the knowledge and skills to shape a more sustainable and greener future.The EU and UN support for expanding Georgia’s air quality monitoring network is part of the broader EU-funded initiative, Air Quality for Better Citizens’ Health, implemented jointly by UNDP, WHO, the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), and the Environment Agency Austria (UBA).Air Quality in GeorgiaGlobally, air pollution causes an estimated economic loss of around US$8.1 trillion each year, equivalent to approximately 6% of global GDP. These losses reflect the combined impact of increased healthcare costs, reduced labour productivity, and lower life expectancy.In Georgia, the 2025 Air Quality Index (AQI) averaged around 66, placing the country 56th globally. While overall air quality is generally acceptable, levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) remain concerning, at approximately 3.4 times higher than the WHO’s recommended annual guidelines.World Bank studies conducted in 2020 and 2025 highlight the significant health, social, and economic impacts of air pollution in Georgia. In 2018 alone, air pollution was estimated to cost the country around US$560 million in healthcare expenses, lost productivity, and reduced quality of life. The burden falls on vulnerable groups, including people with chronic health conditions and other disadvantaged populations.About the European Union For more than 30 years, the European Union has built a close partnership with Georgia, supporting its development through knowledge, experience sharing, expertise, innovation, and financial aid. The relationship between the EU and the people of Georgia is based on shared values of peace, freedom, democracy, human rights, and inclusive economic growth. More about the EU’s support for Georgia: https://eu4georgia.eu/the-european-union-in-georgia About the Air Quality ProjectAir Quality for Better Citizens’ Health is a joint United Nations programme funded by the European Union and implemented by UNDP, WHO, UNECE, and UBA. The initiative supports Georgia in strengthening its capacity to monitor and analyse air quality and regulate major sources of pollution, including industrial emissions. The programme contributes to more effective environmental governance and evidence-based policymaking, helping improve public health and advance cleaner air for all.
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Press Release
25 May 2026
Academic Paper Competition
Within the framework of the European Union (EU) and United Nations (UN) joint project Human Rights for All – Phase III, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) announces a competition for academic articles on the topic: Academic Freedom and Higher Education – Local and International Challenges.The aim of the competition is to promote the development of theoretical, practical, critical, and systemic research on academic freedom. Participants are invited to submit papers analyzing both local and international experiences and challenges. Special attention will be given to the legal and institutional mechanisms that ensure the effective realization of academic freedom in modern higher education systems.All selected papers will be published in a collective volume.Eligibility:Master’s degree holders and Master’s studentsPhD candidates, PhD holders and individuals with equivalent academic qualificationsSuggested Topics:Freedom of expression of academic staff and academic freedomStudent rights and academic freedomAcademic freedom and the democratic stateAcademic freedom and the autonomy of higher education institutionsAcademic freedom and the right to educationThe role of academic freedom in ensuring the quality of educationInstitutional academic freedom, university autonomy, and state oversight of higher educationPapers may be submitted by individuals from any academic discipline, including (but not limited to):LawPolitical ScienceJournalismSocial SciencesEducation Studies, Philosophy, Ethics, and related fieldsTo participate, please send the following to: thea.ketishvili@un.org Your contact information (full name, contact number, academic institution and academic status);Academic CV (including references to published works);Abstract (in a Microsoft Word document, in Georgian language), with a minimum length of 300 words and a maximum of 500 words. The abstract must include: the research topic, its relevance, the problem statement, and the main findings/results.Important dates: June 3, 2026 – Deadline for registration and submission of abstracts;June 8, 2026– Only selected authors will be contacted and a working meeting will subsequently be held with their participation;August 25, 2026 – Deadline for selected authors to submit their articles;September–October 2026 – Review and editing of articles;November 2026 – Presentation of the publication/collection.
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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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