George Melashvili
George Melashvili is a Georgian public figure, political sciences scholar, and civic activist. As the founder and president of the Europe-Georgia Institute since September 2016, he has significantly influenced the civic landscape in Georgia. The Europe-Georgia Institute, initially a student organization, evolved under his leadership into a leading civil society organization in Georgia, joining the European Liberal Forum and founding the annual Black Sea Security conference focused on international security policy. Throughout his career, Melashvili has played a crucial role in promoting civic engagement, democratic values, and global security in Georgia. His initiative, “Your Voice, Our Future,” notably increased youth participation in the 2016 Georgian parliamentary elections, showcasing his talent for mobilizing volunteers. Melashvili actively contributes to the global discourse engaging with both academic and general audiences, and regularly appears on television, covering international affairs on both Georgian and international media outlets. As a participant in the New Security Leaders (NSL) program of the Warsaw Security Forum, Melashvili continues to address global security challenges, while focusing on mitigating the impact of propaganda and bolstering national resilience and creating several initiatives focused on these topics.
Shalva Chkheidze
The Founder and Executive Director of the Institute.
Shalva Chkheidze is the Executive Director of the Europe-Georgia Institute, a leading organization committed to strengthening democracy and civic engagement in Georgia. With a primary focus on increasing youth participation in non-formal education and civic activism, Shalva plays a pivotal role in empowering the next generation of leaders. He is actively involved in various educational projects across the Caucasus region, working to create opportunities for young people to engage in meaningful community-driven initiatives. In addition to his leadership, Shalva has authored several innovative educational methodologies, which have been widely recognized for their impact on youth development and civic education. He oversees the Institute’s diverse activities, ensuring the continuous refinement of projects and processes. His emphasis on innovation and strategic implementation has significantly enhanced the outcomes of the Institute’s programs.