Twenty-three representatives of regional and local media outlets from across Georgia strengthened their understanding of participatory governance, democratic participation and human rights at local level during a two-day workshop held in Tbilisi on 26–27 June 2026.

The workshop enhanced participants' knowledge of the role of local media in supporting informed public debate by improving quality of reporting on issues affecting local communities. Through interactive discussions, practical examples and peer learning, participants explored approaches to covering citizen participation processes, youth engagement, community-led initiatives and local human rights issues in a balanced, accurate and audience-oriented manner.

The activity also provided a platform for media professionals from different regions of Georgia to exchange experiences and discuss common challenges faced by local and regional media. The discussions facilitated the identification of opportunities for continued professional cooperation and knowledge-sharing among regional journalists.

The workshop further increased participants' awareness of the contribution of local and regional media to democratic governance, drawing on the standards and recommendations of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe, including its Resolution on Local and regional media: watchdogs of democracy and guardians of community cohesion.

Participants particularly appreciated the opportunity to exchange experiences with colleagues from across Georgia and expressed interest in continuing cooperation through similar workshops and more regular thematic exchanges. Several participants also noted that they intended to pay greater attention to youth initiatives and community-led processes in their future reporting. By connecting media representatives working in different regions of Georgia, the workshop contributed to a wider understanding of the role of local journalism in fostering democratic culture and community cohesion.

The workshop was jointly organised by the Council of Europe projects “Supporting Freedom of Expression and Media in Georgia (SFEM-GE)” and “Advancing Participatory and Human Rights-based Local Democracy in Georgia,” both implemented under the Council of Europe Action Plan for Georgia 2024–2027, with the latter receiving financial support from the Austrian Development Agency as part of the International Partnerships Austria.