Bring Life Back to Georgia’s Historical Landmarks: EU, UNDP Support Parliament to Conduct Thematic Inquiry
A parliamentary inquiry on the theme of revitalizing historic monuments focuses on the spectacular Georgian fortresses and castles. The inquiry examined ways to revitalize historic sites by leveraging their cultural value to redevelop surrounding areas. It examined policy approaches for the sustainable protection and preservation historic heritage, and studied the role national and local authorities as well as the private sector and the civil society played in designing conservation and management instruments.
The inquiry was initiated by the Parliamentary Culture Committee, with the assistance of the European Union (EU), and the United Nations Development Program(UNDP), and involved leading Georgian experts as well as representatives from the public, private and civil sectors.
The results of this four-month exercise was discussed on 18th October at a presentation event and photo exhibition, attended by representatives from Parliament, the Government, civil society and business.
The participants heard from the Parliament Chairperson Shalva Papuashvili, the Chair of the Parliament Culture Committee Eliso Bolkvadze, and UNDP Deputy Representative in Georgia Anna Chernyshova. MP Alexander Elisashvili, and invited expert Tatia Givineria presented the key findings and recommendations.
The final report on the thematic inquiry, which will follow this discussion, will be published by the end of October.
Chernyshova said that “every inch of Georgian soil contains ancient history dating back thousands of years.” “Some key cultural monuments already make Georgia standout globally and attract millions tourists each year. Others need restoration and preservation to last for generations. The Parliament has an important role and effective mechanisms for ensuring that economic and redevelopment projects associated with historic heritage contribute to the protection and conservation of priceless landmarks, and raise public awareness about its value.
The Parliament of Georgia launched thematic inquiries in 2018 to strengthen its oversight function, and engage civil society and academic research institutions in parliamentary activities. Since then, thematic inquires have covered a wide range of important topics, including environmental concerns and business development. As part of their support for parliamentary democratic reform in Georgia, the EU and UNDP assist this effort.
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