ACT Research published a report. According to a public opinion survey conducted by ACT Research, aimed at studying the economic outlook and spending priorities of the population of Georgia, it is evident that the expectation of an economic crisis is quite high among the public. More than half of Georgia’s population, 56% believes that a financial crisis has either already begun or will begin within the next 6 months. This prediction is accompanied by negative assessments regarding personal material circumstances: 36% of the population has seen a decline in their financial situation over the past 6 months.
Economic challenges are clearly visible in the daily lives of the population: 47% of the population struggles to purchase basic grocery products, while 55% find it difficult to purchase medication and medical services. This indicates that the limitation of financial resources critically affects people’s daily, basic needs.
Against the backdrop of economic difficulties, it becomes especially relevant to determine who is responsible for the current situation and who should be the main actor in the process of its resolution. 44% of the population holds the government responsible for the declining living conditions. This trend clearly indicates that the public perceives the government as the main decision-maker and the primary force driving changes in the economic situation. At the same time, 29% take responsibility for themselves and note that they too have contributed to the current situation.
"Ultimately, it is clear that there is an expectation of economic downturn among the population, which affects their financial plans and spending priorities. The main focus is placed on essential needs for survival, while relatively non-essential areas, such as travel, leisure, and entertainment, become less of a priority", - the report reads.
