Reconciliation Minister discusses strategic engagement, reconciliation policy review with women affected by occupation

The ongoing strategic review of the Government’s reconciliation and engagement policies was discussed by Tea Akhvlediani, the Georgian State Minister for Reconciliation and Civil Equality, with women and young people living in the villages of western Georgia's Zugdidi municipality,  near the line separating the Russian-occupied Abkhazia region from the Georgian-controlled territory, the Ministry announced on Friday.

Akhvlediani and Kaori Ishikawa, the United Nations Women Country Representative in Georgia, listened to initiatives and views of the local women affected by the conflict to further reflect them in the updated strategy and action plan of the Ministry. 

Additionally, Akvlediani held a meeting at the Zugdidi State Teaching University with students living on both sides of the occupation line, and was introduced to the needs of the locals, while focusing on the priorities of the new strategy.  

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The Georgian Minister said women and young people had a “special role” to play in both conflict prevention and peaceful resolution, noting the Government’s efforts were aimed at strengthening their involvement in peace and public diplomacy initiatives, and on identifying and responding to their needs.

In her comments, Ishikawa called the meeting a “very unique opportunity,” saying the officials had listened to the concerns of the local women. She expressed hope they would be reflected in the National Action Plan of the Georgian Government.