In economic literature, the effect of minimum wage on the labour market and its relevance as an anti-poverty, equality-enhancing policy tool, is a matter of vigorous debate. The focus of this policy brief is a hypothetical effect on poverty rates, particularly among women, following an increase in the minimum wage in Georgia.

The "Local Economic Development (LED) in Georgia" project, implemented by a consortium led by HELVETAS and commissioned by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), aims to strengthen Georgian actors’ involvement in LED. Moreover, it incorporates an overarching objective “to contribute to increasing employment and income of rural women and men in their localities by enhancing effective collaboration among local and national actors (public, private, civil society) for the creation of new economic opportunities.”

UNFPA will work with ISET-PI to conduct an in-depth analysis of inheritance practices in Georgia with regard to son preference. The team will elaborate on the methodology for analysis and will conduct preliminary desk research on the issue. The program will provide a better understanding of the depth of gender bias in inheritance legislation and practices, and its practical implications on women’s lives, their status, and social-economic outcomes.

On December 5, Tamar Sulukhia, Director of ISET Policy Institute participated in the wrap-up panel and spoke on empowering women as change agents – existing capacities, potentials, and needs. She particularly stressed the importance of data, research, and policy advocacy.

On November 29, 2022, ISET Policy Institute hosted the event Gender Equality in the South Caucasus and Beyond: New Tools for Policy Research that brought together the policy community, experts, NGOs, academia, and development partners. The activity is supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).