Local government in Georgia (country)

Local government in Georgia is structured on a decentralized system, with municipalities serving as the primary units of local self-governance. This system is governed by the Constitution of Georgia and relevant legislation, particularly the Organic Law on Local Self-Government.

The main goals of local government are to address local issues, deliver public services, and promote the economic and social well-being of the community. Municipalities are granted significant autonomy in managing their own affairs, including budget formation and execution, property management, and infrastructure development.

Each municipality elects a Sakrebulo (municipal council), which is the representative body responsible for enacting local regulations, approving the municipal budget, and overseeing the executive branch. The executive branch is headed by a Gamgebeli (mayor or governor in rural areas) or a City Mayor in urban areas, who is directly elected by the residents of the municipality.

The Gamgebeli/City Mayor is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the municipality, implementing the decisions of the Sakrebulo, and representing the municipality in interactions with other government bodies and organizations.

Key responsibilities of local governments in Georgia include:

• Providing pre-school education
• Maintaining local roads and infrastructure
• Managing public transportation within the municipality
• Promoting tourism and local economic development
• Ensuring the provision of social services to vulnerable populations
• Environmental protection and waste management
• Land management and urban planning

Reforms have been undertaken to strengthen the capacity of local governments, increase their financial resources, and enhance citizen participation in local decision-making processes. Despite progress, challenges remain in ensuring effective service delivery, combating corruption, and promoting equitable development across all municipalities. Ongoing efforts are focused on improving the fiscal decentralization process and empowering local communities to play a more active role in shaping their own future.