Georgia remains strongly committed to the realization of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by integrating its goals into policies at central and local levels. The principle of 'Leave No One Behind' is central to Georgia's approach, reflecting the government’s commitment to support disadvantaged and socially vulnerable groups.
Recognizing the vital importance of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to achieve a more sustainable future for all and keep our country and the entire planet safe for future generations, Georgia has systematically incorporated 17 SDGs in its development policy documents. In 2022, the government adopted the "Vision 2030 – National Development Strategy of Georgia" , ensuring that the global goals are embedded within the country's overarching policy framework. The government has also adopted the National Strategy for Human Rights Protection to reinforce its commitment to human rights.
To facilitate the economic, social, and environmental transformations at all levels, the Government of Georgia commenced the SDG localization in 2021 . Recognizing the unique needs and challenges of different regions within Georgia, allows for the development of targeted interventions. 32 out of 64 municipalities in Georgia are actively engaged in SDG localization and it is anticipated that all municipalities will gradually integrate into this process by 2025.
Georgia prioritizes the whole-of-society approach in delivering the Agenda 2030 and coordinates the SDG implementation in frames of the SDG high-level interagency Council and four thematic Working Groups where stakeholders from various sectors are represented.
The 3 rd Voluntary National Review (VNR) by Georgia, prepared in close cooperation with the mentioned stakeholders, evaluates progress since the 2 nd VNR of 2020, focusing on three main directions: Economic Development, Social Inclusion and Human Capital Development, and Democratic Governance .
Despite the challenges of 2020, including the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, as well as tensions in the region, Georgia has experienced significant economic strides . Owing to prudent economic policies, the country overcame external shocks, maintaining stability and achieving impressive economic growth, reaching double-digit economic growth in 2021-2022 and sustaining a strong growth trajectory with a 7.5% economic growth rate in 2023. The government prioritizes infrastructure development, including transport networks, energy, and urban development. High economic growth, productivity enhancement, structural improvement of the economy and increasing employment represent the main factors creating market-based foundations for reducing poverty and inequality.
Fully realizing the severe consequences of the unsustainable use of natural resources and the impacts of climate change on the sustainable development of the country and the globe, Georgia is committed to environmental protection and decarbonization.
Access to education and the development of human capital at all levels are vital for Georgia’s development and prosperity. The country has undertaken substantial education reforms in recent years to modernize its education system, emphasizing inclusivity and aligning with international standards. Efforts include enhancing vocational education to meet workforce demands, with increasing state budgetary allocations annually.
Efforts continue to establish sound social protection mechanisms aimed at eradicating poverty. The government supports vulnerable groups through targeted social programs. With universal access to healthcare services, covering 94.7% of the population, the government improves service quality and alleviates the financial burden on citizens. Georgia is dedicated to ensuring decent work conditions and promoting local employment.
In recent years, collaborative efforts between partners have driven positive advances in democratic governance. The government’s dedication to public administration and open government reforms, as well as its emphasis on human rights, positions the country as a regional leader in democratic development. Achieving the historic success of EU candidate status acknowledges Georgia's long-term dedication to aligning with EU standards and regulatory framework, emphasizing its progress in building open and accountable institutions.
Russia’s occupation and effective control of Georgia’s Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions impedes full SDG implementation, violating the 2030 Agenda’s principle to leave no one behind. People on the other side of the occupation line face grave security, humanitarian, and human rights challenges. The Government of Georgia’s programs aim to improve humanitarian and human rights conditions, yet Russian occupation denies conflict-affected individuals access to Georgia's positive developments.
Georgia remains committed to an inclusive and whole-of-society approach to the 2030 Agenda, ensuring no one is left behind.