Georgia to launch systemic review of social assistance database, Minister

Georgia’s Minister of Health, Mikheil Sarjveladze, on Tuesday defended the government’s decision to begin a review of the socially vulnerable households database, describing the move as both necessary and justified.

“Let me pose a rhetorical question - is it right or wrong to start verifying the database of socially vulnerable families? The answer is very simple, and society will assess it itself,” Sarjveladze said.

He noted the database must be fair and accurately reflect the real socio-economic conditions of beneficiaries. He stressed that state programmes in the areas of social protection and healthcare were aimed not only at providing financial assistance and employment opportunities, but also at strengthening families.

“The state works not only on distributing benefits and promoting employment, but also on empowering families. The key indicator is that the poverty rate is declining, while unemployment is at a historic low. It is important to strengthen socially vulnerable citizens and create opportunities that help overcome poverty,” he said.

Sarjveladze noted that the verification process will have a systemic character and is expected to take place over the coming months, potentially lasting up to six months.

“It is important that the system functions continuously. The database is like a living organism - it requires constant response, data collection, processing and evaluation. Over the next several months, significant data will be accumulated that will create a substantial picture,” the minister added.