Research

Guide to Sustainable Policies of Major Financial Institutions

Research / /

The guideline, developed by Civic IDEA with the support of CAPS Unlock, provides an in-depth overview of the environmental and social policies adopted by major international financial institutions (IFIs) to promote responsible and sustainable development. It covers the frameworks established by the following IFIs:

World Bank (WB) Asian Development Bank (ADB) European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) European Investment Bank (EIB) Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)

The guidebook outlines the policies these institutions require borrowers to follow, ensuring that projects minimize negative impacts on communities and the environment. It emphasizes sustainability by mandating comprehensive risk assessments and the implementation of safeguards to address issues such as biodiversity loss, pollution, and social disruption. A core focus is placed on transparency, stakeholder engagement, and responsible project management throughout the entire development process.

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The Road to Dependency: Chinese Banks Eyeing Georgia

New, Research / /

A new report by Civic IDEA examines a key development stemming from the Sino-Georgian strategic partnership: the potential entry of Chinese banks into the Georgian market.

The report highlights recent meetings between the central banks of Georgia and China, during which the National Bank of Georgia consistently expressed interest in the presence of Chinese state-owned banks in Georgia.

It also addresses the risks and challenges linked to Chinese financial institutions, citing examples of “debt-trap diplomacy” in countries such as Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, and Montenegro.

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EMERGING CONCERN Chinese Surveillance Cameras in Georgia

New, Research / /

A new report by Civic IDEA explores an emerging dimension of China-Georgia law enforcement cooperation: the procurement of Chinese surveillance technology by Georgian government institutions.

Drawing on publicly available data, the report examines state procurement of Chinese surveillance cameras between 2019 and 2024, revealing a growing trend in the acquisition of this technology by Georgian authorities.

The report’s final section highlights the significant challenges associated with Chinese surveillance technology, including data insecurity, vulnerability to cyber-attacks, human rights concerns, and close ties to the Chinese Communist Party. These issues have led to the banning of Chinese surveillance technology in several Western countries.

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CHINESE COMPANY CRTG: SECURITY RISKS AND INFRASTRUCTURE FAILURES

Research / /

“Civic Idea” is pleased to present a new publication examining the recent entry of the Chinese state-owned company, China Railway Tunnel Group (CRTG), into the Georgian market.

The report delves into the controversies and challenges surrounding CRTG, which is overseeing two critical infrastructure projects: the Kvesheti-Kobi highway connecting Georgia to Russia and the Stepantsminda-Gveleti connecting road.

This study highlights key concerns, including security risks, infrastructure deficiencies, and the company’s history of serious international violations. It provides an in-depth analysis of CRTG’s operations in Georgia and explores its track record in other countries.

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Hybrid Threats and Resilience

Research / /

This policy paper, Hybrid Threats and Resilience, delves into the evolving nature of hybrid threats—tactics blending conventional and unconventional warfare such as cyber-attacks, disinformation campaigns, and economic coercion. These strategies undermine democratic institutions and societal trust, often operating below the threshold of traditional conflict. Highlighting real-world examples, including Russia’s aggression in Ukraine and China’s strategic use of economic leverage, the paper presents a comprehensive analysis of these threats’ implications on global security. It advocates for a whole-of-society response, offering actionable recommendations for policymakers, security professionals, and civil society to build resilience, protect critical infrastructure, and maintain democratic integrity in an increasingly interconnected world.

Why read it?

This paper is essential for anyone interested in understanding and combating the modern threats targeting democratic systems. It combines deep analysis with real-world case studies, offering practical solutions to safeguard institutions and societal values. By reading, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of how hybrid threats operate and learn proactive strategies to strengthen resilience and deter adversaries in an era of advanced technology and global interdependencies.

Full paper:

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Sino-Georgian Strategic Partnership: Cooperation in Education

Research / /

Civic IDEA is pleased to share the China academic monitoring report, “Sino-Georgian Strategic Partnership Cooperation in Education”.

The report provides an overview of the educational collaboration between Georgia and China, highlighting key developments under the 2023 Sino-Georgian Strategic Partnership Agreement. This partnership seeks to enhance academic ties, foster exchange programs, and support Chinese language and culture initiatives in Georgian educational institutions. Besides, the study underscores the impact of Chinese investments and the role of Chinese entities in transforming Georgian higher education, exemplified by the rebranding of Guram Tavartkiladze Teaching University to the Georgian International University (GIU) under the ownership of Chinese stakeholders.

The paper also examines the influence of platforms like Sinomedia, which actively promote Chinese educational initiatives, competitions, and language courses in Georgia. This platform, created by Georgian graduates of Chinese universities, plays a significant role in disseminating information about educational opportunities and achievements related to Sino-Georgian cooperation.

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How is the potential Chinese investor in Anaklia linked to the tragic incident in Serbia that left 14 people dead?

Newswire, Research / /

The incident in Serbia, which led to the tragic loss of 14 lives, occurred at a railway station renovated by the same company now considered a potential Chinese investor in the Anaklia port project.

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“Russian Businesses of Georgian Dream Donors” Part II

Research / /

 On October 16 th 2024, Civic IDEA presented evidence regarding the financial ties and connections of the ruling Georgian Dream party to Russian interests. Our report demonstrates that most of the party’s major donors are backed by the Russian market and funds, with their interests closely aligned with Moscow. As a result, they actively support policies deepening Georgia’s economic dependence on Russia in exchange for personal financial gain. We revealed that Georgia’s wine exports heavily rely on the Russian market, that is about 73,5% of the total export volume, a dangerously high level that poses significant risks to the Georgian economy.

This dependency leaves Georgia vulnerable to political manipulation, as Russia could leverage market access to exert pressure at any moment. Instead of diversifying export markets, the Georgian Dream leadership, mainly through actions of Bidzina Ivanishvili’s family members—Alexandre Ivanishvili, Ucha Mamatsashvili, and other business partner donors—has allowed this dependency to grow, heightening economic risks for the country.

Today, we present the second part of our study, revealing even more alarming findings. Based on concrete evidence, we will show that some donors of the Georgian Dream are not only engaged in trade or economic-political ties with Russia but are also listed as ‘international sponsors of war’.

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