UK John Smith Trust Fellowship Scheme to Be Reintroduced in Georgia

British Ambassador Justin McKenzie Smith on January 30 hosted a reception at the British Embassy to announce the re-introduction of the John Smith Trust Fellowship Scheme in Georgia.

The event was attended by Baroness Elizabeth Smith, Member of the House of Lords, John Smith fellowship alumni, government officials, civil society and members of the business community.

“The John Smith Fellowships built an extraordinary bond of friendship between Britain and Georgia since it started in 1996,” said Ambassador McKenzie Smith. “Following a two year gap, I am delighted that once again we are supporting a scheme that will connect Georgian future leaders with the UK.”

For the past two decades, the John Smith Trust (JST) has successfully delivered over 20 fellowship programs in countries of the former Soviet Union, and has more than 400 alumni from the region. This new phase of the program is expected to “build on its track-record to create a powerful experience which is relevant to the challenges these young leaders face, and which forges enduring relationships with and between participants,”- the JST statement reads.

The JST seeks to promote good governance, social justice and rule of law by nurturing a new generation of leaders committed to making a difference in their countries and societies.

It was created to provide a permanent memorial to one of Britain's most respected politicians, who died suddenly in May 1994. John Smith was held in high affection because of the sincerity with which he promoted democracy, social justice and good governance. The aim of the Trust is to honor him by promoting the ideals he held close to his heart.

The JST Fellowship Programs seek to show how a mature democracy supports and develops good governance, the rule of law and the protection of human and legal rights. They also aim to discuss how the British form of democracy encourages the participation of voluntary and other non-profit organizations that seek to relieve poverty, to promote human rights and to give a voice to those who lack political influence, drawing on a wide range of speakers and panellists who generously give their time - all of whom share an interest in good governance and open debate. These contributors include politicians, business leaders, academics, civil servants, civil society and media organizations. The Trust provides a forum for them to interact and participate in discussion and informed debate in an informal and ‘off the record’ context.

“The UK is uniquely well-positioned to share the experiences – good and bad – of how a mature democracy handles issues relating to governance, rule of law and social justice in both theoretical and practical terms,” says JST Chair Baroness Catherine Ashton. “I am very much looking forward to the next two years, and very grateful for the FCO’s support.”

Katie Ruth Davies