Georgia

Estonia has been a vital partner to Georgia since 2000, and Georgia has been a priority country for Estonian bilateral development cooperation since 2006. Georgia is committed to the continued improvement of its government and economic structures, strengthening the rule of law, and education reform. Estonia supports Georgia’s integration with the European Union and stands ready to offer assistance to facilitate the realization of the Association and Free Trade Agreement.

Estonia’s firsthand experience in developing a strong democratic state after declaring independence from the Soviet Union makes it an invaluable partner to Georgia in its development journey. In 2021, both countries adopted the Estonia-Georgia Development Cooperation Land Strategy 2021-2024, which reflects Georgia’s present needs and determines development directions and areas in which Estonia can offer added value.

Estonian development cooperation in Georgia focuses on strengthening democratic state structures and systems, civil society, and the adoption of EU values, supporting entrepreneurship, improving the quality of education, and protecting the rights of women and children.

Estonia’s development assistance to Georgia began in 2000. Over the course of this partnership, Estonia has provided €14 million in assistance and implemented 430 projects in the name of Georgian development. As of August 1, 2023, there are 9 ongoing projects in Georgia. Notable projects improve the quality and availability of education, as is the successful Tbilisi Barnahus projekt, which provides aid to women and children who have experienced abuse.

Priority Areas of Estonian Development Cooperation in Georgia

• Education – updating and adapting the education system to meet the needs of the labor market and develop digital skills
• Entrepreneurship – supporting the development of small businesses, introducing the principles of creating start-ups, and involving women and young people in entrepreneurship
• Democracy and good governance – promoting implementation of the EU Association Agreement and reform agenda, involving civil society in governance and shaping reform processes, promoting awareness of the EU, promoting gender equality and the rights of women, supporting regional development