UNM launches overhaul of vertical party structure to champion deliberative democracy

The United National Movement (UNM) has announced the launch of a new phase in its organisational development. The initiative aims to transform the party’s traditional, vertical hierarchy into a modern, digital, network-based model built upon broad civic engagement.

The strategy is being presented at the party headquarters by Irakli Pavlenishvili and Ani Tsitlidze. Party Chair Tina Bokuchava is absent from the briefing.

According to the presenters, the primary objective of the reform is to open up the party, enhance transparency, and ensure members and supporters play a far more active role in decision-making processes.

The overarching concept is built upon four core pillars:

Strengthening Deliberative Democracy: A system of citizens’ assemblies and regional advisory councils will be established, enabling both party members and independent experts to shape political strategy.

A Digital Party Platform: A unified digital ecosystem will be rolled out to facilitate internal elections, primary voting, and member engagement within a transparent, secure online environment.

Financial Transparency and Micro-Donations: The party is shifting towards a model of small, regular contributions, reducing the risk of undue influence from major financial donors and boosting accountability.

Data-Driven Communication: Utilising artificial intelligence and data analytics, the party will identify real-world grassroots issues to ensure highly targeted political communication.

“In its initial phase, the reform focuses on expanding our volunteer network, introducing a digital task-management system, and establishing autonomous regional hubs that will operate on a decentralised yet coordinated basis. This concept is designed to reshape the party into a more agile, modern political platform that connects directly with citizens,” presenters noted during the unveiling of the UNM’s digital reform strategy.