Pensioners face tough challenges

Georgian pensioners are the poorest within the post-Soviet space. While since the Rose Revolution, pensions have increased almost seven-times, in reality their purchasing power increased only three-fold and is lagging behind the existing minimum. Beginning on September 1, GEL 10 will be added to pensions. However, this amount will cover only around 80% of the existing minimum in Georgia. More than 90% of the old-aged pensioners are supported by their family members. Compared with other former Soviet Union states, Georgia has the highest retirement age and lowest average pension. Demographic surveys show that the elderly population has increased in number in Georgia. The Georgian population has become older compared with neighboring S. Caucasus countries. With a population of about 4 million, there are more than 600, 000 employed people and more than 800, 000 pensioners.