• On August 26, the government passed a decree that, within the framework of the “Promoting the Development of Citizens’ Involvement” initiative, allows municipalities to receive construction works worth up to 34 million through simplified procurement. On July 23, the government adopted the initiative Promoting the Development of Citizens’ Involvement,” and it involves allocating 20 million GEL to municipalities. The allocated money should be used for projects implemented within the municipalities’ own authority, the final decision on the selection of which is made by the mayor of the municipality.

The aim of the allocated funds is vague and creates a risk of using them for pre-election purposes. According to the new decree, municipalities will be able to spend the allocated funds without tenders, with less transparent procedures.