Georgia’s 2024 census data collection extended until December 31 - Statistics Office

The National Statistics Office of Georgia on Friday said the deadline for completing fieldwork for the 2024 Population and Agricultural Census throughout the country was being extended until the end of the year.

The data collection, involving both door-to-door interviews and online self-registration by citizens, will now continue until December 31.

The self-registration option, introduced for the first time, was initially available during the first stage of data collection between November 14-28. The second stage has primarily involved door-to-door, face-to-face interviews conducted by professionals using tablets.

The body noted the census had “faced challenges”, particularly in the capital city of Tbilisi, where some citizens had not responded to Office representatives during their visits to allow them access.

This has significantly delayed and prolonged the process. In recent days, heavy rainfall and adverse meteorological conditions have also hindered the data collection process in some regions. Practice has shown the self-registration method has proved to be more convenient for many individuals”, the body added.

In response to public demand and following international recommendations, the Office  has announced reopening of the self-registration portal, effective December 20. to allow citizens to fill out their electronic questionnaires independently, without requiring an interviewer to visit their homes.

The body also cited the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe as saying it is “essential” for Georgian authorities to complete the census by the end of 2024, aligning with the Action Plan of the country’s Association Agreement with the European Union.

The census is a major statistical initiative, supported by over 12,000 dedicated personnel from [the Office], including trained specialists and motivated students just beginning their careers. [The body] has invested over five months in training these individuals to ensure thorough and efficient data collection process”, the body added.

The Office said all data gathered during the census would remain “strictly confidential” in line with national legislation and would be used solely for statistical purposes and not disclosed on an individual basis.

Preliminary results of the census are expected to be published in June 2025.