Georgia

WHY WE WORK IN GEORGIA

The female labour force participation rate in Georgia stood at 55.7% in 2022, according to the World Bank. While this figure indicates a relatively high level of participation, it is essential to note that women’s employment tends to be concentrated in lower-paid sectors and informal work, limiting their access to quality jobs and economic empowerment.

Regarding political participation, women in Georgia continue to be underrepresented in decision-making positions. As of 2021, women held only 20% of seats in the Georgian Parliament, according to data from the Inter-Parliamentary Union. This underrepresentation hinders the full inclusion of women’s perspectives and priorities in the political sphere.

Gender-based violence remains a pressing issue in Georgia. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) reports that approximately 18% of ever-partnered women in Georgia have experienced physical or sexual violence by an intimate partner. Furthermore, cultural norms and societal attitudes often perpetuate a culture of silence and impunity, making it challenging for survivors to seek justice and support.

The LGBTQ+ community in Georgia faces significant challenges, including discrimination, stigmatization, and limited legal protections. According to ILGA-Europe, Georgia ranks 38th out of 49 European countries in terms of LGBTQ+ rights and protections. The lack of comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation and societal acceptance contributes to an environment that marginalises and excludes LGBTQ+ individuals, limiting their access to equal opportunities and resources.

The ongoing war in Ukraine has implications for women and minorities in Georgia. Displacement and insecurity resulting from the conflict can exacerbate existing vulnerabilities and increase the risk of gender-based violence. Women and minorities, including the LGBTQ+ community, may face specific threats, discrimination, and barriers to accessing essential services and protection.

WHAT WE DO

We work on issues related to gender based violence, equal political participation and engagement in public debate, tackling gender stereotypes and norms, producing knowledge on relevant issues and using that knowledge to conduct evidence based advocacy for changes in harmful practices.

Examples of issues we work on with partners include:

• Develop knowledge on gender inequality for use in advocacy
• Provide legal services for women victims of violence
• Share knowledge on gender and gender stereotypes
• Work with strategy duty bearers to push for women’s involving in decision-making
• Support locally formed women’s rights campaigns across the country

WHO WE WORK WITH

In Georgia, KVINFO works with big membership-based women’s rights organisations with broad outreach, well-established networks, and contacts with national politicians and other duty bearers.