Georgia Field Study: Understanding the Legacy of Community Mobilization

1991 marked the state of Georgia's independence from the Soviet Union and has since struggled with issues ranging from armed conflict, unemployment and corruption. Georgia's stability is critical for the region as it is located between Russia and Turkey.

Mercy Corps has worked in Georgia since 2000 with a focus on addressing the need to strengthen the ability of vulnerable communities to identify, prioritize and effectivly address their needs.

This study analizes key factors that contribute to lasting behavior change in communities that successfully support community mobilization activites.

Over the course of the three week field study, Mercy Corps' research team noted increased feelings of hope and trust in participants and fellow community members after the mobilization process.

The result of the study was a better understanding of the factors that are valued by the community and contribute to their successful and sustained mobilization so that Mercy Corps can build them into future program design.