ABSTRACT

Following the collapse of the Soviet Union and its declaration of independence in 1991, Georgia struggled through a civil war and two ethno-territorial conflicts. These events left the country impoverished, driven by a shadow economy and marred by corruption. Although the government of Eduard Shevardnadze (1995–2003) brought some normalcy and stability, corruption remained unchecked in all spheres of life, and was even argued to be endemic to the country. The 2003 Rose Revolution brought in a new government that promised to end corruption and abuses of power. Top on its list for reform was education, and specifically university admission examinations. Prior to the revolution, bribes and patronage were commonplace for university admission. The reform has removed many possibilities and incentives for corruption in the admission process. Despite the vast improvements, however, the new system is still a work in progress. Georgia 22%

of people see the education system as corrupt or highly corrupt.

Source: Transparency International's ‘Global Corruption Barometer 2013’.