General information

About the Mission

Launch date: 1995
Local staff : 70
Expatriates : 8

Key figures

Population: 4.5 million inhabitants
Human Development Index : Ranking 96 out of 177

Humanitarian context

Despite having once been one of the most prosperous regions in the Soviet Union thanks to its agricultural exports and tourism, Georgia’s socioeconomic indicators have been steadily in decline since it gained independence.

Currently 50% of the population live below the poverty line. The country is facing serious food insecurity and the situation is deteriorating by the day. Low family income is weakening the country’s productive activity. 

Despite the ceasefire observed by the United Nations after the war, the conflict between Georgia and the secessionist Republic of Abkhazia is yet to be resolved and has led to 250,000 people being displaced from their homes.

The widespread corruption of the administrative system during the 90s has hindered the development of solid institutions which would promote economic development.

Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, the State has neglected to take responsibility for the basic needs of the most vulnerable members of the population. A large part of the population are dependent on agriculture but they have to contend with limited access to land and out-of-date agricultural technology.

The disbanding of Soviet industry has left many Georgians unemployed with little hope of being able to re-enter the job market.

In urban areas an average of 26% of people are unemployed, but this sometimes reaches highs of up to 40%. The pension system is currently playing a crucial role in reducing poverty.

The increasing political instability which began in 2005 has caused high levels of frustration which are exacerbated by the high unemployment rates and extreme rural poverty.

Action Against Hunger in Georgia

Food Security

• Income generating activities
• Supporting agricultural service providers
• Strengthening agricultural production
• Creating a network for information and distribution

Building Peace

• Youth associations
• Education about conflict resolution
• Projects between conflicting communities

Community Development

• Creating community-level capacities
• Strengthening community participation in decision-making processes
• Developing community projects
• Community projects
• Coordination and participation of local authorities in community development

Funding

SDC, ECHO, European Commission