Issue #1239

Issue no: 1239

• MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2020 • PUBLISHED TWICE WEEKLY

In this week’s issue...

FOCUS

Salome Zurabishvili Foundation to Donate 30,000 GEL to the StopCoV Fund

ON GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY Top hotels in Tbilisi open their doors to volunteer as quarantine facilities

PRICE: GEL 2.50

NEWS PAGE 2 PAGE 2

Ukraine Declares Nationwide State of Emergency NEWS PAGE 3

“President” Bzhania: A New Era?

POLITICS PAGE 4

NCDC Imereti Head on COVID-19 & Whether Georgia Is Worthy of All the Praise INTERVIEW BY NINI DAKHUNDARIDZE

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nternational media outlets, among them EurActiv and bne IntelliNews, have written about the unlikely success story of Georgia, a small country in the Caucasus that has handled the coronavirus so much better than more developed states. In a remote interview, GEORGIA TODAY asked Gocha Giorgidze, the Head of the National Center for Disease Control (NCDC), Imereti Office, to talk about the

Putting Aside Apocalyptic Scenarios after the Coronavirus BUSINESS PAGE 4

Alarming Results of CENN’s Study on Water Sanitation & Hygiene (WaSH) at Schools in Georgia SOCIETY PAGE 7

COVID-19 in Georgia, how the country has managed it so far and how ready the country is for what might be coming.

“It’s true that the situation we have today is extraordinary, and despite the deep professional intellect of our medical society, and their rich experience, the knowledge each one of us has about the present circumstances is merely theoretical. This is a fight against an invisible enemy, a fight for which theoretical knowledge alone is not enough, and a fight that demands daily practice of dealing with clinical cases and prevention measures,” Giorgidze tells us. “Each individual has to show flexibility, quick-thinking and a willingness for acts of bravery.

Continued on page 5

Georgian Social Workers Request Creation of Care Centers for Homeless Children SOCIETY PAGE 9

Georgian Filmmakers Release Their Films Online for Free CULTURE PAGE 11

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NEWS

GEORGIA TODAY

MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2020

Salome Zurabishvili Foundation to Donate 30,000 GEL to the StopCoV Fund he Salome Zurabishvili Foundation has donated 30,000 GEL to the StopCoV Fund set up to fight the new coronavirus, a video posted on social media proclaims.

"The Salome Zurabishvili Foundation is donating 30,000 GEL to the StopCoV Fund. I encourage everyone who can to donate and help Georgia fight against the spread of #COVID19," the Georgian President tweeted.

In order to effectively curb the spread

of the illness, a platform was created at the instruction of the Prime Minister, within the framework of which all companies, as well as citizens, will be able to make a monetary contribution to the joint cause.

Around 6 million GEL has already been transferred to the #StopCoV fund.

“In a matter of days, various companies and citizens have expressed a desire to assist the state in the fight against the pandemic. The process of spending money mobilized in the fund will be transparent,” said Business Ombudsman Mikhail Daushvili.

Donations to the fund can be made via the www.stopcov.ge platform.

that. In addition, we are looking at special measures to help the economy, business and the most vulnerable groups of society. This will be a long process, no doubt, but we will be in this together. This is the

time to take care of each other. As for me, personally, I cannot think of a better place to be right now than here in Georgia. Take care, stayed committed,“ Ambassador Hartzell said.

BY ANA DUMBADZE

T Carl Hartzell: I Can't Think of Better Place to Be Right Now than Here in Georgia

BY ANA DUMBADZE

I

cannot think of a better place to be right now than here in Georgia, EU Ambassador Carl Hartzell said in his video address, congratulating Georgia on its effective COVID19 response and urging everyone to take care of each other.

"I am reporting from home. It is an unprecedented time for Georgia and for

the rest of the world. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the world has turned upside down,” the EU Ambassador said.

“In this context, I would like to congratulate the Georgian government and its politicians for acting early and robustly,” he noted.

“I would like to applaud the population of Georgia for supporting these measures and for acting responsibly in order to stop the spread of this virus. I would like to use this opportunity and express my admiration for the medical professionals,

for doctors and nurses for law enforcers, border guards and others for working tirelessly in theses days for the safety and security of everyone here. This crisis is not only a health crisis but also a tremendous economic challenge. I am proud to be working alongside other international partners under the leadership of the Georgian government to properly assess the needs and set out the way ahead. The European Union stands with Georgia.

The EU is Georgia’s largest donor and strongest partner, and we will remain

GNTA Head Thanks GMT Group for Arranging Quarantine Zone in Hotel Moxy Tbilisi

BY ANA DUMBADZE

Giving Back to the Community

F

red Smits, General Manager of Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace, has released a statement regarding the current situation in the country.

"Dating back to the early 1990s, the Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace has a long history of standing by the people of Georgia and serving as a safe haven for local and international communities.

"Today, when the world faces the global coronavirus pandemic of COVID-19, we will support the Georgian community and show our gratitude to the people of Georgia.

"Accordingly, our owning company, the Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority Georgia LLC (one of the Georgian

investment entities of the Emirate of Ras al Khaimah), has taken the decision to support the Government and people of Georgia during these difficult times by working with the Government of Georgia to provide the Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace facilities free of charge to individuals identified by the Government of Georgia as being in need of this support.

"Marriott International is taking a similar position with a number of their Georgian hotels.

"A community always has been and always will be a priority for the Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace. With this gesture, we would like to reiterate our support to the people of Georgia," Smits said in the statement.

H

ead of the National Tourism Administration of Georgia, Mariam Kvrivishvili, has thanked GMT Group for arranging a quarantine zone in one of its hotels, Moxy Tbilisi, free of charge.

The GNTA head emphasized that with this move, GMT Group has demonstrated a high sense of social responsibility.

The GMT Group handed over the hotel 'Moxy Tbilisi' to the National Tourism Administration for use as a quarantine zone, free of charge.

Kvrivishvili, along with representatives of the ministries of Health and Internal Affairs, met with the staff and managers of the Hotel. Hotel staff were trained, while each staff member was acquainted with the mandatory procedures that must be followed during the quarantine.

Hotel 'Moxy Tbilisi' offers 130 rooms.

"The GMT Group has demonstrated high social responsibility in handing over the hotel 'Moxy Tbilisi' to the Georgian government totally free of charge to help maximally prevent the spread of the new coronavirus in Georgia.

"The National Tourism Administration will use this hotel as a quarantine zone.

Today, together with representatives of the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of

Internal Affairs and other agencies, we have introduced hotel managers and staff with the procedures that must be followed both inside and outside the hotel.

I would like to thank the GMT Group for their kind initiative.

"We urge other hotels as well to get involved in the important process of preventing a new coronavirus in Georgia," she added.

The National Tourism Administration has organized quarantine zones in 63 hotels across Georgia, where 4147 citizens are placed.

The GNTA continues negotiations with various hotels throughout the country to create new quarantine zones.

The Agency provides transportation, accommodation and meals for quarantined persons.

NEWS

GEORGIA TODAY MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2020

3

Ukraine Declares Nationwide State of Emergency

BY ELENE DZEBISASHVILI

U

kraine has introduced a nationwide quarantine until April 24 to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

Ukraine’s Cabinet of Ministers adopted the new decision at a meeting on March 25, the Ukrainian News Agency reports.

The decision envisages the continuation of quarantine from April 3 to April 24, as well as the maintenance of a state of emergency in all regions of Ukraine for a period of 30 days.

Ukraine's government declared a state of emergency on Friday in Kiev and in two of its 25 regions.

The number of registered cases of COVID-19 in Ukraine has reached 114.

Coronavirus: Armenia Announces Strict Regime for 7 Days

BY NINI DAKHUNDARIDZE

A

rmenia, which as of the evening of March 25 had 266 confirmed coronavirus cases, announced a “strict regime” in the country for 7 days, starting March 24. This means that until the end of March, only primary services, shops, and pharmacies will be open.

Armenian Deputy Prime Minister Commandant Tigran Avinyan held a meeting on the country's upcoming steps amid

the coronavirus pandemic, and introduced the “stricter regime”, Armenia News reports.

The participants discussed in detail the constraints of economic activity, continuous preventive steps, as well as upcoming steps, writes the news website.

“The measures we have generally taken up to this point have been effective and the aim of a more stringent seven-day regime will be to maintain control and continue to develop tools that will allow us to detect and prevent infection chains,” said Avinyan.

On Wednesday, offenses by 158 persons

The National Bank of Georgia Sells 40 Million USD at Auction

BY BEKA ALEXISHVILI Image source: A1Plus

who had violated the rules of isolation or self-isolation or other restrictions on the right to free movement, were recorded in Armenia.

T

he National Bank of Georgia sold $40 million at auction to tackle the depreciation of Georgia’s national currency amid the global

economic distress.

“On March 25, the National Bank of Georgia sold 40,000.000 USD. The currency exchange rate became 3.4563,” the NBG announced after the transaction.

The NBG has carried out two monetary interventions, in total amounting to $60 million.

Georgian Human Rights Activist Speaks on Possible Domestic Violence Increase during Isolation

BY TEA MARIAMIDZE

D

omestic violence is one of the top challenges that Georgia faces, and while the state of emergency is on, and the vast majority of the population is either in quarantine or in isolation, numerous people now find themselves locked in with their abusers.

Eka Aghdgomelashvili, a member of the Women's Initiatives Support Group, is among those activists calling for special attention to be focused on vulnerable groups and victims of violence during the coronavirus crisis.

She says that victims of domestic violence are particularly in need of attention and at least moral support during the virus outbreak and in emergency situations.

Aghdgomelashvili explains that when we say that the whole world is unprepared for the spread of COVID-19, it does not imply only the readiness of the healthcare systems but also the social problems caused by the pandemic.

She noted that the virus has the most severe impact on those groups or individuals who are socially and economically vulnerable, and adds that examples from China, the US and the UK have shown that in the quarantine zones, where large numbers of the population are following compulsory quarantine rules, the rate of domestic violence has increased significantly.

Image source: dailynews.lk

“We need to face the crisis and be prepared to leave no group, no people on whom today's situation can impact, without support,” the NGO representative says.

Although Georgia has no statistics on

domestic violence during the coronavirus epidemic at this stage, Aghdgomelashvili believes that the scenario of events is more or less the same in every country and she does not expect a different picture in Georgia.

"Of those quarantined people who lost their day-to-day income and are involved in the ‘Stay at Home’ campaign, who have to choose between hunger and safety, there are people who will be locked up in a single space with a poten-

tial abuser,” she stressed.

She explains that many abusers use isolation as a tool of unconditional control over victims of domestic violence. They try to control their victims, restricting their contact with the outside world, prohibiting work, their meeting family members or interacting with neighbors.

“The reality is that victims of domestic violence primarily turn to their social circles for help, rather than the State,” said Aghdgomelashvili, adding that the pandemic itself, isolation-related stress, fears of losing a job, and other factors may provoke the abuser, and under quarantine they will have complete control over their victim.

That is why the human rights activist believes that even in this crisis, the State should be very careful not to deteriorate the quality of the fight against domestic violence. For example, by separating victims from abusers and putting them in quarantine separately.

The statistics of Georgia’s Interior Ministry read that 10,266 restraining orders were issued to protect victims from domestic violence last year, which is 34% more than in 2018. The ministry says the order was violated by 376 individuals, which is a decrease compared to the previous year. It further reports that the number of people convicted for driving a family member to suicide has increased. In total, 4564 persons were charged with domestic violence and domestic crimes in Georgia last year. In 2020, the ministry says they had issued 948 restraining orders as of February 15.

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POLITICS

GEORGIA TODAY

MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2020

“President” Bzhania: A New Era? OP-ED BY ZAZA JGARKAVA

O

ccupied Abkhazia has a new de-facto leader, Aslan Bzhania, who has become the 5th so-called “president” of the breakaway region.

During the second round of “elections,” Bzhania won a victory with 52,289 votes and, like all the other elections, this time too the Georgian population in Gali was the most active, exceeding 68% of total voters. 813 people from Gali voted for Bzhania, and support was perhaps even higher, but the majority of locals from Gali are deprived of their right to vote.

The competitors have already congratulated the triumphant, which indicates an end to the Ochamchire “gang” that was the era of the previous leader Khajimba, and marks the return of the Gudauta “gang” to governance.

The day after his election, Bzhania nominated “ex-president” Alexander Anqvab for the post of “Chairman of the Government”. This means that Anqvab, AKA “Iron Alika,” who was practically overthrown some six years ago, reappears now as the “Prime Minister”. And considering the fact that Bzhania was the employer of Krasnodar’s FSB until 2012 and has only lived for eight years in Abkhazia, it is easy to guess who’s going to be the ruler of the occupied territory in reality. Anqvab is from Gudauta, a region regarded as the ideological pillar for the Abkhazian independence. Today, the major question in Abkhazia is how long the Bzhania – Anqvab government will

Image source: Apsny Today

last and whether it will mean continuing the trend of Abkhazia’s life of revolution to revolution.

Whatever the case, the Bzhania - Anqvab government still has a long way to go until the next potential revolution, as the winners are only just giving out their promises and discussing future plans.

One of those plans is to start direct dialogue with Official Tbilisi, an initiative that Bzhania voiced after the first round of the elections. He raised the issue once again after winning the elections, stressing the importance of having an official platform, other than the Geneva format, where Sokhumi and Tbilisi can discuss

ways to solve the current issues: “People face numerous problems, the vast majority of our citizens is unfortunately forced to cross the border in order to receive quality medical aid. It also happens that some commit crime on the Abkhazian territory and hide in Georgia, and viceversa. We are also exploiting the Enguri Dam together. And this is an important level of contact,” Bzhania said.

Official Tbilisi has not responded to Bzhania’s initiative and, considering their statement issued on the Sokhumi “elections,” it can be stated with confidence that none of the Georgian governmental officials are planning to open a direct

dialogue with Bzhania outside the Geneva format. Bzhania’s calculations are quite simple: to give an official status to those unofficial meetings in which the representatives of Official Tbilisi meet with the leaders of the de-facto government.

For instance, the meetings on the problems surrounding the Enguri Dam and the more recent ones about coronavirus.

The pandemic has once again highlighted for Sokhumi the importance of direct negotiations with Official Tbilisi.

Where, earlier, Sokhumi dictated the conditions of the negotiations, COVID19 has turned everything around significantly. The recent meeting between

Abkhazian and Georgian infectologists, where the Abkhazian doctors were given special protocols on the fight against the virus, took place following insistent demand from Sokhumi. International humanitarian organizations have so far delivered 500 pieces of personnel equipment, 600 liters of antiseptic products and 500 liters of antibacterial soap to Abkhazia via the Enguri Bridge. Moreover, it is planned to bring other medical equipment to occupied Abkhazia, but on one condition, which is that goods will be imported by international humanitarian organizations and the relations will be maintained with the breakaway region only via the Enguri Bridge.

The leadership team of Bzhania-Anqvab will perhaps bring the most evident change to the lives of Georgians in the Gali region. Khajimba’s governance was fighting by fire and sword against anything Georgian. Among them, it marked the closure of all Georgian schools. Locals were forbidden to learn anything in their native tongue and were deprived of the right to own property. Perhaps this is why Gali supported Bzhania, because he will change Khajimba’s legacy. As for Anqvab, sending him away from the government seven years ago was mainly due to him forming an alliance with the Gali population. From revolution to revolution, from coup to coup, this is how the political reality of occupied Abkhazia can be described to date. It will soon become clear whether Team Bzhania-Anqvab will change this tradition or not, as the coronavirus passes judgement not only on ordinary people, but on governments too.

BUSINESS

Putting Aside Apocalyptic Scenarios after the Coronavirus OP-ED BY EMIL AVDALIANI

T

he novel coronavirus is testing not only the world’s economy, which has already suffered significantly, but also state-to-state relations as well as entire alliances and unions.

Autocratic states are using the pandemic to boast their success based on the heightened security measures the introduced, while many democratic states have largely failed to produce tangible results in fighting the coronavirus.

Another dimension is that many leaders around the world have tried to use the pandemic as a sign of how near autocratic or tightly controlled states respond more effectively to the problem through imposing stringent measures on daily life than does a democratic state.

In an age of increased global competition among the major world and regional powers, the US, EU, China, India, Turkey, Iran and Russia, to either keep the existing global order intact or pursue exclusive spheres of influence, the pandemic poses a strong geopolitical problem.

The pandemic also complicates the relations between neighboring states.

European states have yet to develop a viable strategy to help the most affected EU states. Further east, Russia and Belarus too, despite being legally bound by supra-national alliances, experience troubles in bilateral relations as the common border between the states was closed down, angering Minsk. In Iran, despite a number of drastic measures to contain the virus, the death toll continues to rise and it is not clear at present how far the epidemic is going to spread across this Middle Eastern country.

The pandemic also shows that various states, be they democratic or autocratic, small or big, wealthy or relatively poor, could fare differently. Take Georgia, which despite relatively small financial resources, has so far shown arguably one of the best practices for containing the coronavirus. In comparison, other states, bigger and much wealthier (primarily

Image source: nytimes.com

in the EU), unexpectedly proved incapable of responding to the engulfing crisis in a timely manner.

Another example could be China.

Though hard hit by the crisis, the country still managed to produce some positive results: according to official statistics, Beijing minimized the death rate and has even partially called off a lockdown in the epicenter, Wuhan province.

Overall, this shows that democracies and non-democracies’ reactions to the

crisis vary from case to case and the idea that purely democratic states would necessarily be better prepared for the impending crisis is misplaced. However, in the longer run, western democracies, perhaps along with China, are more likely to come up with long-term solutions to the coronavirus than other states.

At the same time, the crisis is still not guaranteed to be as long-term as it should be to upend the existing political and economic world order. Negative fore-

casts recently propounded by Eurosceptic analysts on the future of the EU, where states pursue a policy of closing down national borders and limiting other contact with the outside world, are overstretched, as similar measures are being employed in other entities, for example, in the Eurasian Economic Union. If the argument that the EU states’ measure of border protection is a clear sign of a return to the concept of national sovereignty and will in the long term harm

the EU, then it should be also applied to the Eurasian Economic Union and other multinational economic cooperation entities.

Thus, putting aside those apocalyptic scenarios, the EU is much likely to continue operating. Moreover, it is also likely that the pre-crisis economic situation will be re-established by the end of the year or early 2021, contingent upon the fact that the virus is put to bed by September.

BUSINESS

GEORGIA TODAY MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2020

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NCDC Imereti Head on COVID-19 & Whether Georgia Is Worthy of All the Praise Continued from page 1 We must not let our invisible enemy influence us emotionally and this way cause the disorganization of our thinking. As soon as the illness kicked off in 2019 in China, our country started preventive measures”.

Giorgidze notes that the NCDC had an initial strategy to isolate Chinese citizens that were arriving from China and monitor them while in quarantine. Then they put monitoring checks to work at border checkpoints to quickly react to the most alarming cases.

“Practically, it is all thanks to the preventive measures and the right strategic work of the public health system that the country has, at this time, 77 cases,” he says.

The protocols of laboratory studies were worked out operatively. “When many European states had not yet implemented laboratory diagnostic methods, the NCDC Lugar laboratory, and then the regional laboratories of Imereti and Adjara, started studies into coronavirus infections. This improved the quality of the timely response and allowed for the operative study of cases,” Giorgidze notes.

In Imereti, he says, two infections clinics are functioning, while one additional clinic has an infections department.

“According to need, all of Imereti’s hospitals have the potential to apply infection control mechanisms correctly and deal with cases effectively,” he states.

HOW MANY PATIENTS CAN BE TAKEN IN AT THIS STAGE IN WESTERN GEORGIA? HOW MANY VENTILATION MACHINES ARE AVAILABLE? At the first stage, in the west of Georgia,

to remain hopeful that the measures we have taken in order to curb the spread will be completely effective and we will not have a fast increase in cases. I’m also hopeful that the qualification of our personnel and their knowledge when using individual self-protection equipment will prevent them getting infected and contributing to an internal spread in the hospitals. In this case, I’m confident when I say that the resources are enough and a collapse is not expected.

INTERNATIONAL MEDIA HAS RAVED ABOUT GEORGIA’S SUCCESS IN FIGHTING CORONAVIRUS. HOW EFFECTIVE WOULD YOU SAY THE GEORGIAN GOVERNMENT’S STRATEGIES ARE?

four hospitals of an infections profile have been chosen and one that is multiprofile. Their resources at this time of slow-spreading are absolutely enough to deal with possible cases.

HAVE MEDICAL STAFF BEEN TRAINED TO MAKE THE FIGHT AGAINST COVID-19 MORE EFFECTIVE? The state has worked out protocols for medical personnel, based on the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO), and our specialists have also held phone meetings with their Chinese colleagues to find out more

about their experiences. Years of experience in fighting numerous serious illnesses with respiratory symptoms have given us a lot of knowledge to work with.

There are probably not many countries that are lucky enough to have such high profile managers and practical scientists as Amiran Gamkrelidze, Tengiz Tsertsvadze, and Pataa Imnadze.

bility of the management of each clinic, and it is equipment of bare necessity that they should have at all times, we have a situation in which their own resources were not enough. Therefore, the Ministry [of Health] made the decision to create a stock which is used to supply the personnel in clinics and quarantine spaces to ensure their safety.

ARE THE CLINICS SUPPLIED WITH INDIVIDUAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT, SUCH AS MEDICAL MASKS?

IF THE SPREAD OF THE VIRUS REALLY KICKS OFF, AND THE SITUATION WORSENS, CAN WE EXPECT A SHORTAGE OF QUALIFIED MEDICAL STAFF?

While it is true that individual protection equipment is the routine responsi-

Innova Invitro

The Place Where Parenting Dreams Come True

The results reflect the effectiveness of operating and approach. It’s important to always remain one step ahead, and we are successful at that more often than not. It’s exactly the result of this that at this stage we’re still talking about prevention and cutting off the spread of the virus, and about potentially dealing with cases during an uncontrolled spread of the virus. However, society plays the biggest part in how successfully our measurements pan out, so I want to urge everyone to follow the advice of our specialists and #stayhome.

It’s hard to make that prognosis. We need

What is the most important, the team of the clinic does not spare efforts to ensure the completion of this process in the shortest time period and offersthegentic research of the smbryo, much faciliating the procesure.

Innova In Vitro clinic specializes in various directions, related to the field: In vitro fertiliziation; insemination; Donation-Surrogacy Programs; Gynecological Endocrinology; Neuroendocrinology; Conservative Gynecology; Estabilishing the causes of miscarriages and their appropriate treatment, as well as Contraception.

Each client of the clinic is treated with a special care, accentuating the significance of individual factors. Therefore, the reproductologist is to individually evaluate the chances of success in each case.

Through the high-quality of services, transparency of procedures and individual approach to the clientele, the Innova In Vitro clinic is now welcoming local, as well es the international patients from various countries of the globe.

Z. Anjafaridze Str. 1 turn #6 Tel: 2-232-232 / 596-232-232 Mail: osidze_k@yahoo.com FB: Innova Invitro/ინოვა ინვიტრო

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BUSINESS

GEORGIA TODAY

MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2020

Founder of Pankisi Camping: Everyone Has Their Own Everest to Climb INTERVIEW

M

ano Kavtaradze founded Pankisi Camping in 2018 to share Pankisi Gorge’s natural beauty with people from around the world. With a lot of hard work and a little support from USAID, she has built a thriving business.

This year, she was chosen for Forbes Georgia’s ‘30 Under 30’ list.

Nestled between the snow-capped Greater Caucasus Mountains to the north and lush wine country to the south, Georgia’s Pankisi Gorge is beautiful, rugged, and remote. Pankisi is home to the ethnic Kists, a Sunni Muslim group with a long history of peaceful interaction with neighboring areas. This interaction was disrupted by the lawlessness of the 1990s and early 2000s, causing Pankisi to be stigmatized and largely isolated from the rest of the country.

With programs focused on economic opportunity and civic engagement, USAID works to help the people of Pankisi reintegrate into national political and economic life. These programs empower women and establish platforms for Pankisi youth to interact with their ethnic Georgian counterparts, with the overall goal of creating economic opportunities and bridging the divide between Pankisi and the surrounding areas.

Mano Kavtaradze, founder of Pankisi Camping, an adventure tourism business, is one local entrepreneur making a positive impact. She’s also proving that women can make it in adventure tourism, a sector that is male-dominated. Last month, Mano was featured in Forbes Georgia’s ‘30 Under 30’ list, a major milestone for a young entrepreneur who launched her business in 2018 with a grant from the USAID Zrda Activity in Georgia. Since then, she has worked tirelessly to share the beauty of Pankisi with the wider world, building a commer-

cially-sustainable tourism business in the process.

Mano recently spoke with USAID about doing business in Pankisi, her future plans, and how sustainable tourism can drive economic growth in Georgia.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A TOUR GUIDE? I grew up in a mountain village and the mountain is an integral part of my life. It is a feeling of special freedom for me. When you stand wordless, between the sky and the earth, and your heart beats really fast, you want to share this emotion with others. I am proudest when I introduce my country to tourists. I turned my hobby into my profession. My inspiration is my love of the mountains.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE PANKISI AS THE PLACE YOU WANT TO SHOW TO THE WORLD? Because I saw the need here. One year ago, I founded the NGO ‘Youth for Pankisi Development’.

I’m not just doing tourism, I want to show Georgia that the Kists are our people, they have 200 years of coexistence with us. We share a common past, traditions, and customs. The Kists are very hospitable people and guests here are more than welcome. Today, life in Pankisi is as safe as in the rest of Georgia.

Why did I choose Pankisi as the place I want to show to the world? The world already knows Pankisi, though, unfortunately, in a negative sense.

Now is the time for that to change. The history of Pankisi Gorge, ancient churches and castles, the Caucasus Mountains, waterfalls, rivers and lakes, flora, fauna and, most importantly, the people, traditions, cuisine, and culture, mean that Pankisi can become a world-famous tourist destination.

WHAT IS YOUR GOAL FOR PANKISI CAMPING? WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACHIEVE?

Mano Kavtaradze started Pankisi Camping in 2018 to share the beauty of Pankisi with the wider world.

Photo credit: Pankisi Camping.

My goal is to make Pankisi Camping an adventure tourism center in the valley. It will be a full-fledged camp with cottages, tents, caravan cars, restaurants, and entertainment and leisure space. Our guests will be able to spend the night in nature, get acquainted with the lifestyle of the locals, plan a hiking tour, rent a mountain bike, learn horseback riding, swim in the mountain rivers, and spend the evening with a bonfire.

In the long run, I aim to create a network of camping sites and cover other mountainous regions of Georgia. For the development of adventure tourism, we need to develop camping.

LONG TERM, WHAT IS THE ROLE OF ADVENTURE TOURISM IN GEORGIA? CAN ADVENTURE TOURISM BE A BIGGER PART OF GEORGIA’S ECONOMY? When I got involved in adventure tourism, I knew that with this business I could benefit my country’s economy more than if I worked in an office. And yes, I do believe that adventure tourism will take an important place in the Georgian economy. It will take years, but it is achievable.

We have all the conditions to develop adventure tourism at the highest level. There is potential in people as well, especially in young people. I graduated from the Adventure Tourism School and got all the necessary skills. I think it is important to have such schools in the mountainous regions as well, so that guides can be trained on-site. I would also like for young people to have access to short-

term internship programs in countries with more developed tourism sectors.

YOU ARE A WOMAN ENTREPRENEUR MAKING AN IMPACT IN AN INDUSTRY THAT SOME PEOPLE THINK IS MALE DOMINATED. DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR YOUNG WOMEN LOOKING TO GET INTO ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND/OR ADVENTURE TOURISM? I never thought my boundaries were limited. Yes, Georgia is a country of stereotypes, every single step of my life was the subject of discussion. "There is no place for a woman in the mountains," "This is not a woman's business," "What do you want in Pankisi"? And, you know, I used those phrases to motivate me: each of my steps forward is proof of the fact that I am where I should be. Today, no one tells me that I cannot do something.

For entrepreneurs just starting out, I can share my favorite quote: "Everyone has their own Everest to climb." Set a goal, be courageous, take risks, and never be afraid of mistakes - that's the motivation of my life.

IF YOU COULD TELL ONE STORY ABOUT YOURSELF, WHAT WOULD IT BE? Two years ago, I received a grant of 2,700 GEL from the USAID Zrda Activity in Georgia to open the camp. Since then, I’ve been able to move the business forward without outside support. Last summer, I hosted about 300 Georgian and foreign visitors.

Georgia's Pankisi Gorge is a geographically stunning part of a country known for its natural beauty. Photo credit: Pankisi Camping.

SOCIETY

GEORGIA TODAY MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2020

7

Alarming Results of CENN’s Study on Water Sanitation & Hygiene (WaSH) at Schools in Georgia

S

afe water, sanitation and hygiene are three closely connected preconditions for public health and a safe living environment.

Georgia is party to a number of international agreements on Water and Health. In 2015, the country signed an Association Agreement with the European Union and undertook an obligation to harmonize its legislation with EU legislation and introduce internationally recognized approaches and regulations. The provision of safe water, sanitation, and hygienic conditions became even more essential to protecting human health, in light of the COVID19 outbreak, as ensuring good WaSH practices in communities will help prevent human-to-human transmission of the virus.

Since 2017, CENN has been working on WaSH issues with EU support to help local communities have access to a healthy environment. In order to evaluate the situation on the ground and create a realistic picture, last year, CENN carried out a study based on UNICEF methodology to assess WaSH conditions in the schools of 10 regions of Georgia.

The assessment covered 206 public and private schools.

The results showed that the provision of water for drinking and other purposes in the regions of Georgia is not effectively regulated, and this problem is especially acute in multiethnic communities where in most cases WaSH issues are not adequately addressed. Furthermore, WaSH issues are not among the top priorities and the population does not recognize the importance of WaSH issues or their direct impact on human health and education.

Water, sanitary and hygiene related

issues in the selected schools were evaluated separately. The results will help decision-makers to plan further activities and provide targeted support.

analyses of the water is recommended.

The majority of the evaluated schools were not provided with an alternative water source, or adequately maintained and closed water storage tanks. This may create serious problems should the main water supply sources fail, as a result of which some schools will not be able to operate or will operate inadequately.

It should also be noted that in cold seasons, schools in the mountainous regions of Georgia face the issue of water shortage as, due to the low temperatures, water pipes freeze, leaving the schools without water. More attention needs to be given to the implementation of infrastructural works and insulation of water pipes providing water to the schools of these regions.

WATER

SANITARY

The quality of drinking water is not monitored on a regular basis. In the majority of evaluated schools, school administrations are not aware about the quality of drinking water in their schools, as laboratory tests of water have never been carried out.

It is also noteworthy that water pipes which provide water to schools are often outdated, or water intakes are not adequately protected, which increases the possibility of pollution of drinking water with bacteria or other harmful substances.

As such, in order to prevent pollution of water with microorganisms/harmful substances and make it suitable for drinking, carrying out periodical laboratory

One of the most important problems identified by the WaSH assessment is associated with the state of school toilets. The sanitary conditions of the toilets in the vast majority of evaluated schools do not meet the relevant requirements: in most cases, the floors and walls of the toilets were not covered with tiles so as to enable their proper cleaning.

Disinfection is not carried out in the majority of school toilets. Unsanitary conditions were detected in many school toilets during the visits. The situation is worse in the schools of villages populated by ethnic minorities.

In the majority of evaluated schools, the responsibility for meeting sanitary

standards is laid on the cleaners, indicating the lack of a serious attitude to the issue and its low prioritization.

The situation regarding the accessibility of toilets for vulnerable groups was not satisfactory in the evaluated schools.

There are toilets adapted for people with disabilities in some schools, but in most cases they are locked or used only by teachers.

HYGIENE The study of hygienic behavior showed that hygiene education is the most important issue in the majority of the evaluated schools. Hygiene education had not been introduced. In general, hygiene, as well as other problems associated with a healthy lifestyle, were not among the priorities in the majority of the evaluated schools, as can be seen from interviews with the management of these schools. Almost half of the evaluated schools had toilet facilities lacking washstands. In some schools, washstands were installed a distance from toilets, therefore going almost unused after toilet use. This is also confirmed by the fact that there were neither soaps (solid or liquid) or towels at the washstands.

“The results of the study show that WaSH issues are not taken seriously and are not among the priorities,” said CENN

Project manager Ana Inasaridze. “In general, hygiene education is the most important problem in the majority of the evaluated schools. In this regards, retraining of teachers and dissemination of information-education materials in the schools should be considered as a priority measure”.

Prior to the implementation of infrastructural projects, it is recommended to organize awareness raising and mobilization campaigns in schools to ensure the long-term effects of future infrastructural projects (e.g., to prevent conditions that could lead to unsanitary conditions in renovated toilets after a certain period of time, to make sure that schoolchildren adhere to hygienic standards and rules, etc.).

The assessment has been carried out within the framework of the ongoing projects of CENN: “Upscaling WaSH Initiatives by Providing Essential Social Services for Women and Youth in Disadvantaged Rural Communities of Georgia” with financial support provided by the Global Water Challenge and the Coca-Cola Foundation (TCCF), and “Water for the Poor,” with financial support provided by the European Union, the main focus of which is the improvement of the health and living conditions of vulnerable multiethnic communities in Georgia.

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SOCIETY

GEORGIA TODAY

MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2020

NGOs: Lockdown of Georgian Town Marneuli Sparks Xenophobia

Image source: dfwatch.net

BY TEA MARIAMIDZE

G

eorgian non-governmental organizations say that a wave of xenophobia has followed the lockdown of Georgia’s southern town of Marneuli due to an outbreak coronavirus there.

Marneuli, which is mostly populated

by Georgian Azerbaijanis, is a small town in the Kvemo Kartli region that borders neighboring Azerbaijan and Armenia.

A lockdown was announced in the municipality on March 23, after an internal transmission of COVID-19 was reported. Epidemiologists have not yet identified the source of the 62-year-old woman's infection.

After the quarantine was put into place, a number of discriminatory and xenophobic posts appeared on social media, seeing some Georgians blaming Marneuli locals for negligence and spreading the virus throughout the country.

Georgian NGO platform ‘No to Phobia’ expressed concerned about the wave of xenophobia that followed the events in Marneuli. Representatives of the platform said in a statement that hate speech and incitement to discrimination against the ethnic Azeri population has been growing in society, especially on social media.

‘No to Phobia’ called on the media, politicians and public figures to maximally facilitate the dissemination of accurate and non-discriminatory information to the public, and also to play an active role in the integration of ethnic Azerbaijani citizens.

The NGOs claim that given the systemic problems faced by ethnic minorities (language barriers, lack of information in ethnic minority languages, vulnerability to disinformation, low levels of integration, less political involvement, etc.), the xenophobic attitude identified after the spread of the virus further exacerbates the current challenge and marginalizes the people being targeted.

“In light of the current developments, it is critically important for each citizen to realize their civic duty and to promote public consolidation,” said the statement signed by 12 NGOs. They further demanded a proper response to xenophobic content on social media, urging politicians and public figures to advocate for equality, while advising civic activists and other groups to report on xenophobic content on Facebook and Twitter.

In response to the xenophobic statements, ethnic Azerbaijani civic activists launched a campaign on social networks, stating that they take pride in their Georgian citizenship, that they speak Georgian, and that they are observing the restrictions imposed by the authorities, including the self-isolation order. Many Georgian citizens showed support for their ethnic Azerbaijani compatriots.

Sozar Subari, the Prime Minister's Adviser on Regional Development, says it is incorrect to think that the spread of coronavirus in Marneuli and the nearby Bolnisi happened because the locals were not informed about the virus. He added that the cases of COVID-19 in Marneuli have no connection to the local traditional holiday Novruz, which is usually celebrated on March 20.

"The spread is unrelated to Novruz

Bayram, which is one of their most distinguished celebrations. I think for the first time in the history of this holiday, no public celebrations were held in Marneuli: citizens celebrated it at home, away from their neighbors, and in this respect, we would like to thank our Azerbaijani compatriots who were very careful to follow the instructions given by the state,” said Subari.

He went on to explain that the quarantine was put into place after the first occurrence of the virus there, the source of which has yet to be identified.

“We do not know the area of distribution. At present, we know where to look for the likely infected and when we know the full picture, it will doubtless be nothing alarming,” he said.

Following the lockdown of Marneuli and Bolnisi, it was announced that the governmental webpage stopcov.ge, which provides information, news and updates on the coronavirus situation in the country, would be made available in Armenian and Azerbaijani, as Marneuli and Bolnisi municipalities are inhabited mostly by ethnic minorities.

Medicine and banking services are being provided without interruption to the locals of both municipalities, and volunteers are actively involved in the process.

Georgia’s Agriculture Minister Levan Davitashvili said that all vehicles moving inside and outside the quarantine zone will be disinfected to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus.

He also said that products that are produced in the Marneuli and Bolnisi quarantine zones are ‘absolutely safe and harmless’ in terms of spread of the new coronavirus.

SOCIETY

GEORGIA TODAY MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2020

9

Georgian Social Workers Request Creation of Care Centers for Homeless Children

BY TEA MARIAMIDZE

T

he Georgian Social Workers' Union is calling on the state to place homeless children into 14-day quarantine and to set up alternative care centers for them to be placed in after being given a clean bill of health.

Social workers released a joint statement which notes that there are alternative forms of care in Georgia: small family homes, foster care and homeless shelters, but that all, due to the current coronavirus outbreak, are in quarantine. In addition to the 24-hour service centers, there is also a day center which provides services to minors throughout the day, but is unable to offer a safe haven for the at night.

The social workers say that homeless “street” children sleep in the metro or on buses, where there is a high risk of infection from coronavirus. That is why they are demanding the creation of alternative centers for them for quarantine and postquarantine care.

“The existing day care center only provides services for minors in the daytime, offering a meal twice a day, psychological services and, if necessary, first aid,” the statement reads. But right now, they add, it is impossible to take street minors to any care centers because there is a risk that they will infect other children who live there.

“Homeless minors are not being transferred to the relevant medical facilities for quarantine, as they do not have the characteristic features of the virus, making it difficult for patrol police to identify cases needing quarantine if they see them,” they say.

The statement also reads that a few days ago, a minor girl escaped from one of the shelters, and if she is returned, there is a

Image source: time.com

In the very heart of the city

Address: 17 Wine Ascent Tbilisi, Georgia Tel: (+995) 322 22 11 16 www.facebook.com/BricksTbilisi/

threat to other beneficiaries until she is checked for coronavirus.

“In order to prevent such risks and meet the needs of juvenile shelter beneficiaries, it is necessary to set up special quarantine areas for homeless minors and also to urgently create care centers for them, where they can be transferred after undergoing the isolation period,” the social workers noted. The human rights activists state that there is a need to focus more attention on the children, especially those in state care, during the coronavirus outbreak, when many families and care centers are in quarantine. They claim that many children not only in Georgia, but all around the world, will likely face increasing threats to their safety and well-being.

UNICEF also released a statement on the topic, saying children are at heightened risk of abuse, neglect, exploitation and violence amidst intensifying containment measures.

The organization says that school closures and movement restrictions are disrupting children's routines and support systems and are also putting pressure on caregivers who may have to stop work.

“UNICEF is urging governments to ensure the safety and well-being of childrenamidsttheintensifyingsocioeconomic fallout from the disease...As part of the guidance, the Alliance is recommending that governments and protection authorities take concrete steps to ensure the protection of children is integral to all COVID-19 prevention and control measures,” the statement reads.

The organization says it is necessary that all countries train health, education and child service staff on COVID-19 related child protection risks and provide targeted support to interim care centers and families, including child-headed households and foster families, to emotionally support children and engage them in appropriate self-care.

10

SOCIETY

GEORGIA TODAY

MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2020

Georgia on the World Map - Nino Chikvashvili's Successful Negotiation the Maldives, an amazing project took place.

The forum participants shared stories, difficulties with successes with each other.

Once again, we have proven that women’s power is indefinable. Most importantly, the forum aims to develop common plans and build partnerships between countries.

WHAT WAS YOUR THEME AS A SPEAKER AT EURO WOMAN 2020?

‘Quality Education - No Child Beyond It’ was the title of my presentation. Of course, I chose the topic based on my activities and tried to talk about all the challenges we are facing, as well as the progress we are making. In doing so, I proudly presented Georgia to the world.

WERE ANY AGREEMENTS OR PARTNERSHIPS MADE THERE THAT COULD BE CONSIDERED IMPORTANT TO THE COUNTRY?

BY MARIAM MERABISHVILI

N

ino Chikvashvili's goal is to establish a culture of quality education, having made a solid start in three cities of Georgia through her own network ‘Georgian-American International School- Progress’.

In the two decades since founding the college, educating the young generation as progressive citizens has been Chikvashvili's main motto. At the same time, despite many achievements, she never tires of the desire to move forward in favor of self-development.

Nino has just returned from the international forum ‘Euro Women 2020, which brings together women like her who make up a distinguished and successful

workforce around the world, and hosts them in various countries.

The Euro Woman International Business Forum awarded her for her contribution to the global education sector, and for establishing new standards of quality. The award was also accompanied by a speaker certificate, as the Georgian participant in the forum, as a speaker, shared her innovative ideas and technologies with the community.

NINO, TELL US ABOUT EURO WOMAN 2020. WHAT IS ITS MAIN PURPOSE? The forum brings together many successful women from around the world, and with consolidated cooperation unites women working in business, politics, or social affairs around a common goal.

I was attending Euro Woman 2020 for the second year in a row, and this time in

Viral Ed. BLOG BY TONY HANMER

T

his thing, this virus, is changing things so fast it’s hard to keep up; especially when not all the news is true, and you have to “skeptify” before you can discriminate and take in just what’s useful. Woe betide us if the fake news debunking sites lose their credibility, though!

The trend worldwide is for educational institutions, from kindergarten through Harvard, to close for a while, to prevent mass gatherings of people, and switch to online versions of what they offer.

Even here in Georgia, it seems unlikely that our currently shuttered schools will reopen this school year, i.e. before midJune. What to do instead?

Our school director asked my wife and

the other teachers to set up Facebook groups for their subjects, and to begin running classes from there. Various possibilities exist for English, as an example.

One can offer essay subjects, such as on how the virus has affected you, your thoughts and feelings on the news as it develops here and abroad, how your plans have had to change, how you have adapted or plan to adapt. There are countless youtube videos for non-native English learners of all ages and levels, especially ones involving songs. These can start at nursery rhymes and go all the way up to today’s pop or other songs with lyrics.

There are also thousands of freely, legally available movies in the Internet Archive.

While one perhaps should concentrate on those with subtitles to maximize learning, the choices are still huge. The same for scanned out-of-copyright books, at Project Gutenberg. Read and listen to the

The main achievement is that in 2022, Georgia will host the forum. Also, I was able to get permission to represent the "Euro Women World's Successful Women's Club" and will soon be establishing it in Georgia. The club will be opened in Tbilisi and will gradually include all cities, creating a network that will bring together successful women in different fields and promote their business.

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THE UPCOMING “TOUR” IN GEORGIA? HAVE YOU ALREADY GOT PLANS FOR EURO WOMAN 2022?

SUCCESSFULLY REPRESENTING WOMEN’S POWER YOURSELF, WHAT TYPE OF INSPIRATION DO YOU FIND IN EACH STORY YOU HEAR?

The forum echoes the identity of the host country, hence the choice, given the Georgian variety, is extensive. I think we can easily surprise them with our culture and history, all with our unparalleled hospitality.

I would always point out that women are an incredibly powerful force, and every single story assures me of that.

And although I have expectations, I am surprised every time.

Many years ago, it was through these performances that I became a member of Soroptimist International - part of a women's

audiobook version at the same time…

Even since I first wrote this article, on March 17, things have changed for the better. There is now a site dedicated to online learning here, silkschool.ge, advertised on TV; as well as official connections via the Ministry of Science and Education to Microsoft Office 365 with all its tools for teachers in Georgia to use. We’ll be trying out a multi-connection video call today or tomorrow as well, whole classes of 2 to 10 children (small school) at a time linked with each other and my wife. Never done this before, but it seems to be possible both in Facebook and from Microsoft Teams…

Individual phone calls, with or without video, and file sharing are possible too.

And the whiteboard we have may suddenly spring into much greater usefulness. Unlimited internet and phone time for a set price are key to this; long may they last as options!

What will be missing is the social interaction between children, and that between them and teachers, face to face, as part of both the formal and informal educational processes. I hope that we can make up for this lack. Parents, however, may be much more involved, the schooling being done at home, so this can only be a good thing.

I suppose that once the novelty of SO much holiday time wears off, and schoolchildren start getting bored of the loneliness and (dare I suggest it?) lack of formal education, they could come to their senses and realize that they can still continue learning; if they want to.

Internet, either by nearly ubiquitous cellphone or by increasingly present computer, is cheap: I pay 5 GEL for a week of unlimited pretty high-speed Magti Wi-Fi modem connection, the best deal ever here, available since December last year. At that price, I’m not even interested anymore in when the truck bringing cable Wi-Fi will make its way

up to Svaneti’s other villages than Mestia and Ushguli; what I have now is fine, thank you. Aside from the few irreplaceable paper books I still have, I now do ALL my reading on my cellphone, having even ditched a separate e-book reader.

And a lot of it isn’t my beloved sci-fi, either, but good old science and history and other non-fiction that interest me.

How the grading of school results will play out is another question. There is also the matter of what all this required isolation will do to our social lives; you know, the ones we used partly to conduct in person, not via screens. Especially in the case of children. Is a whole new meeting-less generation beginning now, and will we look back on early 2020 as the Time Everything Changed? “I remember pop concerts of 100000 people…”

“WHAT?! You’re making that up! [Consults Google, realizes it’s true] Even ten are too many nowadays! What was it like? Weren’t you claustrophobic, wasn’t it stinky and too noisy and simply dangerous?” “Yes, but it was band X, and we HAD to go.”

I remember, as a child, once reading kicked in, sitting and browsing the family’s set of encyclopedias, for goodness’ sake, not just a single session but months

movementteamIworkedwithtocontribute and making the world a better place for us.

All of my goals and aspirations, and accumulated experience, have been conveyed in my main project, the GeorgianAmerican International School- Progress, but at the same time, I try not to stop.

Serving a variety of social projects that will help women in successful businesses will enable them to fully realize their desires and dreams. A strong, accomplished woman is the greatest flagship in the country's process of rebuilding.

and years of it: I was insatiable, and an introvert. I suppose not everyone is. My earliest notebooks also date from about grade 2, so I was writing as well. I’ll still be learning until I’m gone.

My hope is that if this insanity we’re in now doesn’t pass soon, we will be able to live with it in ways that won’t cripple us, socially or economically. Or educationally. Yes, we’re all, the whole planet of us, stressed more than usual; that’s our new norm for the moment. But the world and universe are big old places, both magnificent and perilous, and we have to know enough about how they work and our place in them. We’ll either dumb down, or wake up to new possibilities and seize them, especially our children. Please may it be the latter, the waking up.

Tony Hanmer has lived in Georgia since 1999, in Svaneti since 2007, and been a weekly writer and photographer for GT since early 2011. He runs the “Svaneti Renaissance” Facebook group, now with nearly 2000 members, at www.facebook.com/ groups/SvanetiRenaissance/ He and his wife also run their own guest house in Etseri: www.facebook.com/hanmer.house.svaneti

CULTURE

GEORGIA TODAY MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2020

11

Georgian Filmmakers Release Their Films Online for Free SALT WHITE, BY KATIE MACHAVARIANI

BY AMY JONES

Set in post-Soviet Georgia at the beginning of the 21st century, Salt White tells the tale of Nana, a seasonal worker on the Black Sea coast. Nana’s dream is to open a small cafe in her home town with her savings from the job. Nana meets a refugee from Abkahzia, Niko, and they both bump into Sopo, a homeless child, who brings their world view into question. This beautiful and moving film was awarded Best Debut and Best Male Actor at the Cottbus International Film Festival and recognized at the Montreal World Cinema Film Festival.

A

s countries around the world lockdown due to the rapid spread of COVID-19, people are turning to the internet and the arts to keep busy.

In response to the pandemic, some Georgian filmmakers have released their films to stream online for free. The films are available on the Vimeo video platform with English subtitles.

PIG, BY GIGA LIKLIKADZE In this film by Giga Liklikadze, a series of unfortunate events leads to a young man, Bachana, being kidnapped. His kidnappers demand his family pay 300 GEL in ransom. However, as the family has no money, they try to exchange a pig. In a twist of events, Bachana no longer wants to go home after staying with his kidnappers for three days. Shot in Kvemo Khandaki in 2019, Pig was financed by the Georgian National Film Center.

I’M BESO, BY LASHA TSKVITINIDZE I’m Beso is young filmmaker Lasha Tskvitinidze’s first feature film. Set in a remote Georgian village, the film tells the tale of a teenager, Beso, and his family problems. Beso stays upbeat despite his hardship. He records rap on his dictaphone and hopes to make it in the music industry to earn money for his family. With many bitter-sweet and feelgood moments, the story depicts life growing up in the poor countryside of Georgia.

Screenshot from Ana

JARA, BY NIKA TSIKLAURI Jara is a documentary film depicting the wild nature of Adjara throughout the year. With little speech, the viewer sees wide angles of stunning Adjarian landscapes combined with intimate clips of village life. In the film, humans and nature live in harmony all-year around as honey is collected in spring and snow blankets the mountains in winter.

LI.LE, BY NATIA NIKOLASHVILI Li.Le is a beautiful, short animation film about a girl called Lile. Abandoned in a lifeless forest, she searches for her own reflection to try to bring back the world.

The name Lile originates from Svaneti and means ‘sun’. The film was created

by Natia Nikolashvili, a young female director who graduated in Animation

Directing from the Georgian Theater and Film State University.

SECURITY GUARD, BY GIGA KHAINDRAVA Released in 2018, Security Guard tells the story of two young men who are serving military service. They are ordered to guard an abandoned factory, which was recently sold, to prevent anyone from entering. Everything goes smoothly until workers arrive and attempt to get inside to finish the work they started.

This short 25-minute film is both entertaining and poignant.

LINE OF CREDIT, BY NUTSA ALEXSI-MESKHISHVILI Line of Credit is the work of acclaimed Georgian female screenwriter, producer

and director, Nutsa Aleksi-Meskhishvili.

In the film, Nino, a forty-year-old woman, struggles to come to terms with the collapse of the Soviet Union.

In her new reality, she runs out of money and struggles with debt. This moving film received many international awards following its release in 2014. It was also featured at the Venice Film Festival.

ANA, BY MARGO ZUBASHVILI Ana depicts two days in the life of a middle-aged Georgian woman, revealing intense emotions and questions around what it is to be female. Up and coming director Margo Zubashvili directed this 30-minute feature. It may be short, but it leaves a lasting impact on the viewer.

Poster for I' Beso, Source: Imbd

Tbilisi Open Air 2020

BY NINI DAKHUNDARIDZE

E

ven when times are tough, Music Breaks Free. Tbilisi Open Air 2020 is set to take place on June 26, 27, and 28 at its usual place of residence: Lisi Wonderland. This year, the festival promises three days, four stages, and more than 70 acts. It has headliners from international music scene: Polo & Pan, LP, Apparat Live, She Wants Revenge, Kite, Molchat Doma, Ace Ventura, Robag Wruhme, Petre Inspirescu, and Bedford Falls, an indie-rock Georgian band making mostly English language music, locally very appreciated for their work.

The organizers are aware of the coronavirus scare and have made and published a special announcement on the subject, expressing hope that the virus will be defeated by June.

“We hope that COVID-19 will be defeated by June and that we will be able

to leave these troubled times behind and meet up at Lisi Wonderland. Obviously, if necessary, we are prepared to change the festival dates and to take all required precautions,” reads the statement.

For those worried about purchasing tickets when there is a big chance the festival will have to move the dates, the organizers have a soothing message: “Do not hold off from purchasing tickets now, since any changes to the festival dates will see TKT.GE and Tbilisi Open Air giving customers a choice: either a full refund or keeping the tickets and using them on the new dates,” the Tbilisi Open Air organizers promise, while also noting that refunds will not be available if the dates of the festival are not changed.

Limited 3-day passes will be available until April 7 for 125 GEL, and until then only TBC Bank card holders will qualify for a 20% discount.

The organizers have a special offer for those purchasing said 3-day pass no later than April 7: you will automatically be

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entered into a raffle, the prize of which is a 10-year unlimited pass for Tbilisi Open Air. Overall, the game will reveal 50 winners. The rules of the competition will be announced on April 8.

Passes can be purchased online and in the Tbilisi Concert Hall box office. From April 8, the price for 3-day passes will increase and day passes tickets will be put up for sale. Children aged 10 and under are admitted free to the festival when accompanied by a ticket-holding adult.

Tbilisi Open Air is an international music festival that was first held in 2009, becoming an annual celebration of music in 2011. It is widely considered the biggest music festival in the Caucasus region.

For nine years now, a Tbilisian summer cannot be thought of without the Tbilisi Open Air. As we approach the summer season, it’s becoming more and more evident that there will be nothing usual to the 2020 summer, but we remain hopeful that music, at least, will still have a chance to break free.

Journalists: Ana Dumbadze, Vazha Tavberidze, Nini Dakhundaridze, Tea Mariamidze, Tony Hanmer, Emil Avdaliani, Zaza Jgarkava, Nugzar B. Ruhadze, Beka Alexishvili, Elene Dzebizashvili, Maka Bibilashvili

Photographer: Aleksei Serov Website Manager/Editor: Katie Ruth Davies Layout: Misha Mchedlishvili Webmaster: Sergey Gevenov Circulation Managers: David Kerdikashvili, David Djandjgava

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