The European Union’s Erasmus+ program, which funds government educational initiatives for young people, vocational training, and sports, will no longer include projects in Georgia from 2026.
Among the EU’s Eastern Partnership countries, Georgia was the only participant in Erasmus+. Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Moldova, and Ukraine have not been included in the program.
“In response to current political developments in Georgia, the European Union has reviewed financial support that directly benefited the Georgian authorities […] Direct financial assistance provided under the program to the central government, local authorities, agencies, and state-owned enterprises in Georgia will no longer be considered aligned with the European Union’s interests,” Erasmus+ said in a statement.
Erasmus+ is an international EU program covering education, youth, and sport. Its budget for 2021–2027 is €26.2 billion. The program aims to promote social inclusion, environmental and digital development, and youth participation in establishing democratic principles in society.
Erasmus+ funding is provided to organisations operating in relevant fields, including schools, universities, vocational training centres, NGOs, and youth groups.
Individuals, such as students, teachers, or young people, can also apply. The statement added that “Georgian citizens will still be able to participate in certain parts of the program if they meet specific criteria and conditions.”