EU4 Gender Equality: business forum in Tbilisi highlights need for family-friendly workplaces in Georgia

The European Business Association (EBA) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) have co-organised an executive forum on family-friendly policy, held on 17 July in Tbilisi, as part of the EU-funded project, ‘EU4 Gender Equality: Together Against Gender Stereotypes and Gender-Based Violence’.

The event brought together private-sector leaders and industry pioneers, International Financial Institutions (IFIs) and diplomats to explore the link between private-sector growth and demographic resilience. 

The forum highlighted how family-friendly policies have evolved from corporate perks into a fundamental requirement for securing international capital. 

Family support policies help couples have as many children as they wish while ensuring that both mothers and fathers can remain fully in the workforce and benefit economically. Components of such policies include adequately paid parental leave for both mothers and fathers, flexible work schedules for parents, dedicated spaces for nursing mothers, designated childcare areas in the workplace, and more.

By showcasing successful business cases and the evolving lending criteria of financial institutions, the session demonstrates that a “culture of care” is both a social imperative and a critical driver of sustainable economic competitiveness in Georgia.

Zane Rungule, Chargée d’affaires at the EU Delegation to Georgia, said family-friendly policies have direct economic benefit: “Over the years, women continue to bear a disproportionate share of unpaid care responsibilities, and Georgia is no exception. This often limits women’s participation in the labour market, affects career progression, and contributes to the persistent gender pay gap. Companies with strong parental leave, flexible work, and childcare support record lower staff turnover, higher productivity, and stronger talent pipelines.”

Rungule added that the legislation alone was not enough – lasting change also requires supportive workplace cultures and commitment from senior management: “For countries such as Georgia, these experiences can offer valuable lessons. Advancing family-friendly policies can help unlock the full potential of the workforce and contribute to a more inclusive and competitive economy that can attract European investment.” 

The participants of the forum also highlighted the need for multilateral involvement and partnerships to ensure such an environment.

The business forum was held as part of the programme ‘European Union for Gender Equality: Together Against Gender Stereotypes and Gender-Based Violence’, financed by the European Union, and the UN Joint Programme for Gender Equality, supported by Sweden.

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