H.E. Bergljot Hovland, Ambassador of Norway to Georgia, and Douglas Webb, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Georgia, visited the Samtskhe-Javakheti region on 20–21 November to meet with local youth, media, and civil society representatives.
Throughout the visit, they highlighted the vital importance of civic integration across social groups, generations, and ethnicities as the foundation of an equal, inclusive, and prosperous society. They also reviewed the impact of development initiatives that promote sustainable economic growth, expand educational opportunities, and strengthen civic participation across the region.
The visit concluded in Borjomi, where Ambassador Hovland and Douglas Webb met young participants of a human rights youth camp co-organized by UNDP and the United Nations Population Fund.
“I am impressed by the energy of young people who are working together for the future of their communities and their country. I am deeply encouraged by the visible results of Norway-funded initiatives that help youth connect, access educational opportunities, and pursue their goals. Norway remains firmly committed to supporting Georgia in building a resilient society grounded in human rights, equality, and diversity,” said H.E. Bergljot Hovland, Ambassador of Norway to Georgia.
“Young people are actively seeking answers to the pressing challenges our world is facing, and they are already testing solutions for a better future. Across every region of Georgia, I meet talented, creative youth who are deeply committed to advancing their country’s sustainable development. UNDP is proud to work with national and international partners to open doors for these vibrant young people, provide them with learning opportunities, support their participation, and ensure their voices are heard across society,” noted Douglas Webb, UNDP Resident Representative in Georgia.
The visit to Samtskhe-Javakheti follows similar events in the Kvemo Kartli region, where UNDP and Norway are jointly promoting equality and inclusion, empowering women and youth, and expanding economic and social opportunities for local communities.
These efforts are part of the Norway-funded LEAD: Leadership, Equality, Advocacy & Democracy initiative, which promotes social inclusion across Georgia’s diverse society.
Background
With $4 million in funding from Norway, UNDP is implementing the LEAD initiative to safeguard minority rights, combat discrimination, support grassroots democracy, and empower women and young people in local communities of Georgia.
SOURCE: UNDP
