LocationsEU and UNDP support public discussions about human rights in Georgia
Human Rights Talks kicks off with an engaging opening event
April 28, 2023
Photo: UNDP/Nino Zedginidze
The Human Rights Talks series, aimed at exploring and promoting the importance of human rights in Georgia, kicked off with an engaging opening event on 28 April.
Initiated and organised by the EU and UNDP in partnership with the Union of Tbilisi Museums – Ilia Chavchavadze Literary‐Memorial Museum, the discussion brought together experts, advocates, policymakers, students, and members of civil society and the public to exchange ideas on various aspects of human rights.
The opening event, titled “Human Rights, a Cornerstone of Democracy”, featured a keynote speech by Levan Berdzenishvili, a renowned Georgian scholar, philosopher and former politician, followed by a Q&A session. The speaker emphasized the crucial role of human rights in shaping a democratic society and stressed the need for continued efforts to respect, protect and promote human rights in all areas of life.
In his welcome remarks to the event participants, Nick Beresford, UNDP Resident Representative in Georgia, said:
“Protecting human rights is essential for creating a world that is more equal and just. The Human Rights Talks will help advance this goal by bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise. We are proud to partner with the EU on this important initiative."
Agata Nieboj, Rule of Law, Security and Human Rights Team Leader at the European Union Delegation to Georgia, noted:
“The European Union promotes awareness and understanding of human rights issues that lead to better-informed decisions and policies. The Human Rights Talks provides a forum for engaging people in constructive discussions on human rights, recognising the challenges, and developing solutions.”
The Human Rights Talks series will continue throughout the year, covering a range of human rights issues, including gender equality, environmental justice, labour rights, and freedom of expression. The monthly events will be open to the public and will provide opportunities for engagement and dialogue with experts and policymakers.
###
Human Rights for All is a US$3 million EU-funded initiative supporting Georgia to promote respect for human rights, strengthen human rights protection, and address the remaining issues of concern. Two UN agencies – UNDP and OHCHR are implementing this initiative in close collaboration with national partners and stakeholders.
###
Media contacts:
- Sophie Tchitchinadze, UNDP, +995 599 196907, sophie.tchitchinadze@undp.org
- Teiko Kandelaki, UNDP, +995 599 103525, tinatin.kandelaki@undp.org
- Tamar Mikadze, European Union Delegation to Georgia, +995 32 2364364, tamriko.mikadze@eeas.europa.eu
