On 12 July 2016 the Council of Europe launched a new programme to support Georgia in the run-up to the 2016 (Parliamentary), 2017 (Local) and 2018 (Presidential) elections.

The project aims at training electoral administration staff, working with State Audit Office members to ensure transparency of campaign financing, and preparing domestic election observers to conduct professional election monitoring.

In order to increase women’s political representation, the project will specifically focus on the challenges posed to women as candidates and elected officials.

The project also seeks to raise awareness among voters, including national minorities and first-time voters, to ensure their greater participation in the elections.

Improving media pluralism through training of regional media in electoral coverage will be another important element of the project.

Cristian Urse, Head of the Council of Europe Office in Georgia, and Tamar Zhvania, Chairperson of the Central Election Commission of Georgia, opened the launching event.

The project is part of the Council of Europe’s four-year Action Plan for Georgia 2016 – 2019.