According to a decision by the Georgian government, the construction of 15 new hydro power plants [1] is underway on the territory of the country. The purpose of the project is to bolster energy independence. Two types of hydro power plants are planned for construction: cascade and reservoir.

Transparency International Georgia has observed that violations in property rights are increasing as a result of the Georgian government implementing large-scale projects and ignoring traditional forms of private property ownership practiced by citizens. Unfortunately, the construction of the hydro power plants is no exception.

Up to 60 locals residing in Adjara’s villages (Maradidi, Makho, Adjaristskali and Erge) have had problems registering their private property in the civil registry, as well as receiving compensation for already registered property. This situation is particularly difficult since the commission responsible for recognizing property rights ceased to function when the locals decided to begin the registration process. The commission started to work only after the village land plots were already transferred to government ownership.

The locals state that in spite of talks with local governance, they have no information about the fate of their homes. To them it is unknown whether they will have to move out or if the construction of hydro power plants will bring them any benefits.