EU-supported project that helped improve the lives of people with disabilities and the elderly in four regions of Georgia ended with an official closing event
the official closing event of the project “Strengthening Capacity of Civil Society for Expanded Social Services (SuCCESS)” was held at the “Holiday Inn Tbilisi” hotel. The project was implemented over 3 years by “Anika” association in cooperation with “Telavi Education, Development and Employment Center”, with the support of the European Union.
The project was aligned with the commitment made by the Government of Georgia to uphold the human rights and fundamental freedoms of persons with disabilities through fostering an inclusive environment and delivering quality social services.
Within the framework of the project, in 4 regions of Georgia (Kakheti, Imereti, Guria, Ajara) an in-depth survey assessed the social service needs. The project responded by creating rights-based services tailored to identified needs. Specialists underwent relevant training, while knowledge-raising sessions were conducted for regional civil organization employees. In collaboration with the Ministry of Internally Displaced Persons from the Occupied Territories, Labor, Health, and Social Affairs of Georgia, and working closely with municipalities in Kvareli, Baghdati, Kharagauli, Lanchkhuti, Chokhatauri, Keda, and Shuakhevi, the project developed a national social services strategy. Additionally, an online information portal detailing available social services nationwide was prepared, enhancing accessibility for the public.
“The project held significant importance for our municipalities and the individuals for whom it was implemented, impacting not only the lives of persons with disabilities and the elderly but also their families. It is noteworthy that, as a result of the project, the services established with project support have been officially incorporated into state social programs. This crucial initiative was implemented with financing and support from the European Union, as each activity was precisely directed at enhancing the legal status of persons with disabilities and improving their overall well-being.” – noted Irine Inasaridze, director of the Association “Anika”.
The event was attended by: representatives of the Ministry of IDPs from the occupied territories of Georgia, the Ministry of Labor, Health and Social Protection, the European Union Delegation to Georgia, the Deputy Minister of Health and Social Affairs of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara; Mayors of Kvarli, Baghdati, Kharagauli, Lanchkhuti, Chokhatauri, Keda, and Shuakhevi; Members of the Parliament of Georgia; Advisor to the President of Georgia on Disability Issues; Representatives of international organizations, Public Defender’s Office, local civil society organizations and persons with disabilities.