Kelly Degnan, the US ambassador to Georgia, emphasized the importance of civil society in Georgia when speaking to the media at the Parliament of Georgia.
The US Ambassador said that today was a fantastic chance for John Pennell, the new USAID Mission Director, to visit Parliament. They discussed the several areas of collaboration and collaboration that USAID has with Georgia, including economic growth, energy independence, basic education, vocational education, industry-driven skills development, and of course democracy and governance.
Degnan stated that, as the Speaker noted, a large portion of his career has been spent in the development sector and in civil society. As a result, it was helpful for them to share their perspectives on the crucial role that civil society and development organizations play in all governments, particularly in Georgia, where there has been such a long-standing partnership over the past 30 years.
“I would say in that respect, some of the attacks against civil society have been particularly surprising,” underlined Degnan.
Many members of parliament who worked in civil society before to entering politics are aware of the vital role that civil society plays in a functioning democracy, commented Degnan.
“It’s sometimes uncomfortable to hear feedback from civil society, but that is their role,” she added.
“Their role is to protect the interests of the citizens and to hold the government accountable. Sometimes that feedback is uncomfortable, but they’re not there to work for the government. They’re not there to work for particular political parties. They’re there to work for the public and the rights of the citizens and to hold the government accountable,” stated Degnan.
Degnan claims that Georgia is lucky to have “a number of very professional, strong civil society organizations” that are actively working in these areas, whether it is to combat climate change, enhance neighborhoods, or help create rules that protect workers.
“Civil society works across so many different sectors, and I think we should appreciate the good work that they do every day,” mentioned Degnan.
By Sophie Hodler
