Georgian Civil Society Sustainability Initiative

Project Description

Empowered civil society is a crucial component of any democratic system and is an asset in itself. Therefore, support to and engagement with civil society in all of its diversity is an essential part of the EU programming in Georgia. This is one of the major projects implemented under the EU Roadmap for Engagement with civil society in Georgia 2018–2020. It improves the environment for the civil society in Georgia, empowers civil society organisations (CSOs) and increases accountability towards citizens.

As a result of the project, Georgian CSOs become more sustainable and benefit from diversified sources of funding, including transparent state funding mechanisms and vibrant Corporate Social Responsibility culture. They gain more positive public perception and acknowledgement from different state and non-state actors, effectively engaging in advocating interests and political, economic, social and cultural rights of their constituencies. Further, civic participation increases through better cooperation of CSOs with local media, businesses, and authorities, especially in regions and among youth. Finally, CSOs across Georgia are able to influence local and national policies and take a more active role in monitoring ongoing reforms.

During the lifetime of the project, over 110 activities will be implemented, targeting especially the regions of Georgia and the youth. It will award up to 80 sub-grants and engage more than 2500 civil society actors across the country.

Specific Objective

Enhance sustainability of civil society in Georgia with an improved operational environment, empowered CSOs, increased accountability of CSOs to constituencies, and amplified linkages to other actors, thereby contributing to policy dialogue and development.

Expected Results

– State funding mechanisms are transparent, operational and stimulate philanthropy; a vibrant CSR culture takes root; CSOs effectively diversify their funding sources.
– The Georgian public has gained a positive perception of civil society as CSOs apply international standards of transparency and accountability towards all stakeholders and are well acknowledged by them.
– Civic participation and local support have increased due to effective management, and participatory leadership of CSOs.
– CSOs across Georgia influence local and national policy, take over an active role in the EUAA process, and monitor reforms.

Project Map