Georgia’s Social Crisis – One-Third of the Population Considers Themselves Poor

Poverty levels in Georgia have significantly increased, as confirmed by the latest data from the Social Services Agency. As of January 2025, the number of recipients of subsistence allowances has nearly reached 700,000, marking a 7.5% increase compared to the previous year. Additionally, the number of citizens who perceive themselves as poor and in need of assistance has exceeded 1.275 million.

Over the past year, there has been an increase in both the number of people relying solely on government assistance and those participating in state employment support programs. As of January 2025, 696,359 people receive subsistence allowances, of whom 465,026 rely entirely on this support, while 231,333 are enrolled in employment programs, which allow them to maintain their status as socially vulnerable individuals for four years. In January 2024, these figures were lower, with 647,479 receiving subsistence benefits, and 208,085 participating in employment programs.

A particularly alarming trend is the growing number of citizens officially registered as living at or below the poverty line. In January 2024, this figure stood at 1,215,483, but has now risen to 1,275,118—meaning that at least 60,000 more people have officially applied for government assistance in the past year.

The Scale of the Crisis

These numbers are even more concerning when compared to Georgia’s total population. According to Geostat, the country’s total population currently stands at 3,694,600. This means that:
🔹 One in three Georgians considers themselves poor.
🔹 One in five citizens depends on government financial support.

These figures highlight the inability of Georgia’s social policies to effectively address rising poverty levels, as the demand for state assistance continues to grow. If such a large segment of the population requires support, this suggests deep-rooted economic problems that fail to provide sustainable employment opportunities or improved living standards.

State Responses and Challenges

The Georgian government has attempted to address these issues through various employment support programs, but the results are not yet evident on a large scale. While the number of people enrolled in these programs has increased, there is no detailed data on whether their income or quality of life has improved.

To combat poverty effectively, policies must go beyond simply increasing financial aid. Sustainable job creation and economic stability must be prioritized to ensure long-term improvements in living standards.

The global economic context and rising inflation further exacerbate the crisis. The increasing cost of living and limited employment opportunities suggest that poverty levels will worsen unless immediate and effective measures are taken.

What Needs to Change?

Georgia cannot rely solely on social assistance programs—a broader strategy is needed to:
Encourage job creation through investment in key industries
Support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to boost economic activity
Improve education and vocational training to align with market demands
Strengthen social protection policies without fostering long-term dependency

Without comprehensive economic reforms, the reliance on state aid will continue to grow, worsening Georgia’s social crisis. The focus should shift toward economic development, employment growth, and poverty reduction strategies that provide real income opportunities for the population.