Georgian PM announces new wave of local self-government reforms

Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili said one of the priorities of the government is to ensure balance among the different regions of Georgia.

Introducing the regional decentralization strategy today, PM Kvirikashvili said local governments should have both the decision-making authority and the resources for their fulfilment.

I am very enthusiastic about this reform. We wish for the youth with the best educations to join local governments and have the motivation to contribute to regional development”, Kvirikashvili said.

He said there has been a slight difference among the levels of life in different regions. To encourage the local population remain in their regions, the Government of Georgia aims at eradicating this imbalance.

Representatives of the executive and legislative bodies, as well as the local and foreign civil society organisations attend today's presentation. Photo by the PM's press office

The local self-government bill was first adopted in 2014. Kvirikashvili believes the bill has created an important legislative framework for further institutional changes.

• Read about the local self-government bill adopted in 2014 here.

The eight-year strategy will ensure that the local self-governments have:

1. increased authority;
2. more financial resources for effectiveness;
3. transparency and accountability and public engagement.

PM Kvirikashvili believes this will bring more tangible results for regional development.

Kvirikashvili said the reform will be carried out through active cooperation between the executive and legislative bodies. However, public engagement and the expertise of international partners is also essential for successful implementation.