Social Classes in Georgia

Georgia has a complex history of social classes that has a significant impact
on modern society. Let's explore different factors contributing to social
class mobility and possible solutions to address socioeconomic inequality.
History of Social Classes in Georgia
Nobility
In the past, nobles and aristocrats held most of the
wealth and power in Georgia, followed by
merchants and craftsmen. Farmers and peasants
were at the bottom of the social ladder.
Post-Independence
After independence, a small group of oligarchs
emerged, taking advantage of the void left after
the Soviet economy collapsed to accumulate
wealth and influence.
Soviet Era
During the Soviet era, social classes were largely
suppressed. However, some elites held power
through political connections or through their
roles in the Communist Party.
Current Trends
Many Georgians remain affected by poverty,
unemployment, and income inequality despite
some recent economic growth. The Gini
coefficient, a measure of income inequality,
remains high.
Current Social Classes in Georgia
Upper Class
High net worth individuals,
often with significant political
or business connections
Control a significant portion
of the country's wealth
Often seen in high-end
restaurants and exclusive
social clubs
Middle Class
Small business owners,
white-collar workers,
professionals
Increasing but still relatively
small segment of the
population
Often invest in education and
career advancement
Lower Class
Workers in low-paid sectors
such as agriculture,
construction, and transport
Often live in rural areas or
urban slums
Suffer from lack of
opportunities, low wages, and
poor social services
Factors Contributing to Social Class
Mobility
1 2 3

Education Entrepreneurship Political Power

Education is seen as a key
factor in social mobility. Access
to quality education can help
people climb the social ladder
and escape poverty.
Starting a business is a way to
create wealth and increase
social status. However, many
barriers to entrepreneurship
exist in Georgia, such as
bureaucratic hurdles and lack
of capital.
Politics has long been a route
to wealth in Georgia. However,
this has also created corruption
and cronyism which has made
it difficult for people outside
of political factions to move
up.
Effects of Social Class on Education and
Employment

Education Gap Employment Inequality Networking Challenges

Children from lower social classes
tend to have fewer educational
opportunities and poorer outcomes.
Access to extracurricular activities,
tutors, and resources is often
limited.
Lower social classes are often stuck
in low-wage sectors such as
agriculture and manufacturing, with
limited opportunities for upward
mobility. This perpetuates the cycle
of poverty.
Lower social classes often face
challenges in accessing social
networks and job opportunities.
They may not have connections to
existing professionals in their field
or access to the right social circles.
Challenges Faced by the
Lower Social Classes
1 Poverty
Lower social classes are
often stuck in a cycle of
poverty with few
opportunities for upward
mobility.
2 Restricted Access to
Healthcare
Lower-income individuals
may lack access to quality
healthcare, leading to a
variety of health issues and
potentially exacerbating
existing conditions.

3 Limited Political Power

People from lower social classes may lack political capital, making
it difficult to have their concerns heard.
Possible Solutions to Address
Socioeconomic Inequality
Invest in Education Ensure Access to Healthcare

Increased investment in education and early Expanded access to health services, including
childhood development can help break the preventative care, can help individuals from lower
poverty cycle. social classes maintain their health and avoid
financial hardship.

Encourage Entrepreneurship Combat Corruption

Promoting entrepreneurship through training, Efforts to fight against corruption can help create
mentoring programs, and funding can help create a more level playing field, reducing the power of
more opportunities for social mobility. elites and increasing opportunities for others.