DEMOGRAPHIC CHALLENGES OF THE GEORGIAN HIGHLANDS

Nana Akhalaia

Nana Akhalaia PhD in Economics, Professor of Gori State Teaching University, Gori, Chavchavadze st., №53, 1400, Georgia http://orcid.org/0000-0002-9372-0562

Keywords: Highlands, Demographics, Challenge, Attractiveness, Depopulation.

Abstract

Mountains and mountainous regions are a very painful and unresolved problem for Georgia today. The mountain was and is a supplier of all the vital products that people so desperately need. Our mountains are loyal border guards of Georgia. Every highland region has its own identity, specificity, strengths and weaknesses. In the XXI century there has been a significant decline in the growth of the mountain population, the main reason for which is a significant decline in the birth rate and migration. Due to the economic problems in the highland settlements, young people can no longer stay in the villages and go to the big cities in search of work. Georgia's mountainous demographic change can be seen as a challenge for mountainous areas and not just as a problem. The article discusses the demographic situation of the mountainous regions of Georgia. Ways to improve the demographic situation of mountainous regions are proposed and issues of attractiveness of mountainous areas for young people are discussed.