The English translation of Zurab Zhvania’s seminal work, The Privilege of Our Generation, opens a crucial window into the political evolution and democratic aspirations of Georgia, offering invaluable insights for scholars, politicians, and students interested in transitional societies. First published in Georgian in 2005, this book compiles Zhvania’s influential lectures from 2002-2003, delivered to master’s program students at the Georgian Institute of Public Affairs. With this English edition, scholars, politicians, and students worldwide can now access Zhvania’s profound insights into democratic governance and political theory.
Zurab Zhvania, a cornerstone of Georgia’s post-Soviet political scene, envisioned this book as a synthesis of his rich political experience and theoretical reflections on democracy. The text is rooted in the transcripts of his lectures, maintaining the dynamic classroom atmosphere. Supplementing the lectures are some of Zhvania’s most significant speeches, providing a fuller picture of his democratic vision.
Widely used in Georgian educational institutions, The Privilege of Our Generation serves as a crucial training resource for students of public administration and journalism. The English translation omits certain annexes found in the Georgian editions, such as biographical details and universally recognized documents like the Magna Carta. This streamlined version focuses on delivering Zhvania’s core teachings to an international audience already familiar with these foundational texts.
The creation of this book was a testament to collective effort and dedication. Students and colleagues contributed to transcribing and organizing Zhvania’s lectures, ensuring the authenticity and integrity of the material. This collaborative spirit highlights the communal commitment to preserving and sharing Zhvania’s intellectual legacy.
The Privilege of Our Generation is more than a historical document; it is a guide for understanding the intricacies of democratic transition. Zhvania’s insights into governance and the challenges faced by emerging democracies are invaluable for anyone studying political science or involved in shaping democratic institutions. His work emphasizes the continuous and participatory nature of democracy, a message as relevant today as it was in the early 2000s.
The recent release of Zurab Zhvania’s The Privilege of Our Generation in English is a significant milestone in the global discourse on democracy. It provides readers with direct access to Zhvania’s thought-provoking lectures, offering a detailed exploration of Georgia’s political evolution and the broader challenges of democratic transition. This publication not only honors Zhvania’s legacy but also serves as an essential resource for understanding the complex journey towards democratic governance in transitional societies.
By Ivan Nechaev
