Georgia launches harm-reduction education program with community-led workshops

In February 2026, an unprecedented educational initiative launched in Georgia - a series of harm-reduction workshops held simultaneously in three cities: Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi. The first sessions drew a combined total of over 200 attendees. The program's organizing NGO, "New Voice," explains that the initiative's main goal is disseminating objective information and reducing stigma. "In Georgia, cannabis-related topics are often taboo - people can't access reliable information, which increases risk," says the organization's director, Nino Beridze. The first workshop, held at Tbilisi's Fabrika space, focused on three core topics: practical methods for assessing product quality, recognizing misinformation on social media, and crisis preparedness. Participants received practical checklists and contact information for psychological support hotlines. The Batumi session generated particular interest. In this tourist city, where the population nearly doubles seasonally, the question of public awareness is especially acute. Local physician Giorgi Chkheidze presented a medical perspective at the workshop, emphasizing the importance of first-aid knowledge. In Kutaisi, the program focused on parents and educators. Sixty percent of participants came from these groups. Organizers say this was unexpected but deeply positive - adults want to know how to talk to young people about these topics objectively and without resorting to fear tactics. The program's second phase is planned for April–May 2026 and will expand to include Rustavi, Zugdidi, and Telavi. Organizers are also developing an online course that will be accessible from anywhere in Georgia.