The Women’s Fund “Sukhumi” has conducted a new study on the experience of cyber-attacks and online violence among school students, exploring its gender dimensions and impact. The research involved 192 students from ten municipalities in western Georgia, revealing that 25% had personally experienced online violence. TikTok and Facebook were the most common platforms for girls, while boys primarily encountered such incidents in online games. The most widespread forms of violence included offensive rumors, mocking comments about appearance, and sexual harassment, which was particularly prevalent among girls. Online violence has a serious psychological impact on students, leading to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Despite this, the study found that 30% of respondents do not seek any help, which may be linked to stigma and a lack of adequate support.
The research strongly emphasizes that preventing and addressing online violence requires a systemic approach, including strengthening education, increasing parental and educator involvement, and improving legal regulations to make the online environment safer for students.
Ekaterine Gamakharia, Head of the Women's Fund "Sokhumi" Tbilisi Office, along with activist Vero Melua, discusses the challenges faced by internally displaced persons (IDPs) today on TV Formula's program "With the People."
"Many of the challenges that IDPs face remain unnoticed by society and have practically never been, or only rarely, part of the political and social agenda," said Ekaterine Gamakharia.
How does domestic violence affect women's lives? What barriers do they face, and what are the possible solutions?
This video is based on real stories and reflects women's experiences, challenges, and paths to empowerment. It is grounded in the research and support services of the Women's Fund "Sokhumi."
During the meetings of women's mutual support groups in Tskaltubo and Vani, services offered by municipal and non-governmental organizations were discussed. Samtredia group has been replenished with new members, so new cases have appeared. They need to be processed in a timely manner and each one needs to be resolved.
In Kobuleti, the group members outlined their problems and needs. Necessities were discussed in Terjola, Zugdidi, Tsalenjikha, Senaki and Khobi. The woman from Chokhatauri has a great desire to take courses of working with polymer clay, as this is one of the ways to find employment along with therapy. It is important for women that a psychologist from the Women Fund “Sukhumi” periodically works with them, helping them to solve their problems.
The project is implemented with the support the Equality Fund (Canada
The five-month training course has been completed in all ten municipalities.
Ways of peaceful conflict resolution, relationships between children and parents – these topics were discussed by the trainers together with the youth.
The young people actively discussed the topics, openly expressed their opinions and shared their own examples with the audience. They noted that skills of peaceful conflict resolution are necessary in life. It is also important to have open relationships with parents.
The youth received information about the final meeting in March, and also learned details of the grant project announced by the Fund “Sukhumi” for the training participants.
Despite the difficult situation, the trainings were held without interruption.
In March, the trainers of the Fund “Sukhumi” will see the results of five months of work.
The project is implemented with the support of the organization Brot
für die Welt - Evangelischer Entwicklungsdienst (Germany)
"What Do Women Survivors Say?" reflects on the harsh realities experienced by domestic violence survivors in Georgia, sharing their personal stories, challenges, and the systemic barriers they face in seeking safety and independence. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, in 2024 alone, 8,744 restraining orders were issued, with the vast majority of victims - 6,634 cases - being women. Despite legal progress, many survivors refrain from seeking help due to social stigma, economic dependence, and a lack of accessible support services. Based on research by the Women’s Fund “Sokhumi,” this document assesses the effectiveness of existing assistance programs and underscores the urgent need for stronger, more sustainable mechanisms to support women in rebuilding their lives.
Informing women about services and programs to help victims of domestic violence is still relevant: during the month, 150 people received the necessary information at Women Support Centers and distributed it in different communities. Thus, the participants of the meetings contribute to the prevention of violence.
As a result of monitoring, 10 families under the risk were identified. Active cooperation with these families is underway. Four of them became users of the services of the Women Fund "Sukhumi". The psychologist continues to work with them, and the other cases are referred as needed.
The project is implemented with the support of the organization Brot
für die Welt - Evangelischer Entwicklungsdienst (Germany)
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The TV “Rioni” broadcasted a live program with the participation of host Nino Nebieridze and guests of the program, representatives of our organization: Emma Kamkia and Khatuna Gogua.
The report on the research of the Women Fund “Sukhumi” "Assessment of the gender impact of the component of family and community participation in the educational process of the State Standard of Early and Preschool Education" was discussed.
Women and girls make beautiful handicrafts. In early February, they began studying at the Day Rehabilitation Center of the Women Fund "Sukhumi" - they touched polymer clay for the first time, but already know a lot and love working with it.
Maka Jishkariani shares her knowledge and experience with new students and is happy with their diligence.
Everyone knows that these are not just classes, but real therapy. This process reveal the women's creative abilities and hobbies. After training, they can start a small business, realize their ideas and dreams.
The project is implemented with the support of the organization Brot
für die Welt - Evangelischer Entwicklungsdienst (Germany)
