In the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region, a working meeting was held in Zugdidi to strengthen the intermunicipal platform addressing social issues. The event was organized by the National Association of Local Authorities of Georgia (NALAG) and supported by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

The meeting, held within the framework of joint cooperation between the NALAG Human Rights Localization Committee and the Public Defender’s Office, highlighted the significant role of municipalities in promoting equality at the local level.

The first part of the meeting was opened by Giorgi Talakhadze, Head of the Regional Department of the Public Defender’s Office, who introduced the audience to the activities of the Public Defender’s Office and the prospects for cooperation with local governments. Ani Saldadze, a representative from the Equality Department, addressed the importance of prohibiting discrimination at the local self-government level.

The second part of the event focused on discussing child-friendly social programming.

NALAG expert Kakha Gurgenidze provided a detailed overview of the mechanisms for planning municipal social programs. A methodological guide was also reviewed, and participants were informed about the monitoring of municipal social programs by Council of Europe expert Nino Zurabishvili.

At the conclusion of the event, Nino Sulukhia, Head of the Social Service at Zugdidi Municipality City Hall, gave a presentation. She shared the experience of Zugdidi Municipality in this area and introduced the audience to social programs designed to meet specific needs.

As highlighted during the meeting, local governments play a crucial role in ensuring child protection and social welfare. Being the closest link to the population, municipalities are well-positioned to effectively identify the needs of local communities and address them through municipal social programs and various initiatives. Therefore, it is essential for municipal employees to possess the necessary knowledge and experience to properly develop, plan, and implement social programs.

The event, which featured a discussion format, was attended by the heads of municipalities from the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region, employees of social services and departments, as well as representatives from NALAG and the Public Defender’s Office.