IRI Georgia Poll Shows Economic Concerns, Political Polarization, Fears About Russia

Tbilisi, Georgia – A new nationwide poll conducted in Georgia by the International Republican Institute’s (IRI) Center for Insights in Survey Research (CISR) reveals concerns over the economy, feelings of political polarization, and fears over threats from Russia. 

When asked about the economic situation, 76% of Georgians said the economy has worsened a lot or somewhat over the last twelve months. Six percent said it has improved in the same timeframe.  

“The economy continues to be the dominant issue on the minds of the Georgian people,” said Stephen Nix, Regional Director for Eurasia at IRI. “It is clear that more solutions must be offered to tackle problems related to unemployment and the cost of living.” 

A growing sense of political polarization appears to be on the rise in Georgia. When asked if the country was moving toward consensus or more polarization, 71% chose the latter.  Further, 60% of Georgians said they would like to see new political parties in future elections.  

“The data reveals that people see the country becoming more polarized when building consensus should be the goal,” said Nix. “This is partly why a majority of Georgians desire new political parties.”  

The poll also showed that Georgians are very fearful of Russia. Ninety percent of Georgians said that Russia was the greatest political threat and 83% cited Russia as the greatest economic threat.  

Methodology  

This survey was conducted on behalf of IRI’s Center for Insights in Survey Research by Dr. Rasa Alisauskiene of the public and market research company Baltic Surveys/The Gallup Organization between March 4 and March 24, 2022. The fieldwork was conducted by the Institute of Polling and Marketing. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews in respondents’ homes. The sample consists of 1,486 Georgians aged 18+ and eligible to vote. The data was weighted for age, gender, region, and settlement size. The margin of error is plus or minus 2.5 percent, and the response rate was 64 percent. 

This survey was made possible by the generous support of the American people through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).