Abstract

The 2024 Population and Agricultural Census of Georgia was conducted jointly. This approach introduced a set of innovative methods aimed at improving data quality, operational efficiency, and respondent engagement. The National Statistics Office of Georgia (GeoStat) implemented a two-phase approach combining Computer-Assisted Web Interviewing (CAWI) and Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI). During the first phase, conducted from 14 to 23 November 2024 and from 19 to 31 December 2024, households were encouraged to self-register and complete the census online. The second phase, from 29 November to 19 December 2024, involved field data collection by trained enumerators equipped with tablets.
For the first time, population and agricultural data were collected simultaneously, enabling a more integrated understanding of rural households, land use, livestock, and other key agricultural indicators. To support precise geographical coverage and efficient field management, GeoStat applied Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to delineate enumeration areas, produce digital maps, and monitor fieldwork in real time. The GIS infrastructure also helped to prevent duplication, ensure full territorial coverage, and facilitate spatial data dissemination.
These innovations were supported by updated statistical legislation and national funding to guarantee both confidentiality and data integrity. The 2024 Census represents a major step forward in modernizing agricultural data collection in Georgia through digitalization, spatial integration, and respondent-centered design. Final data released in June 2026.
The paper discusses methodological lessons learned, benefits of integrating digital technologies in agricultural censuses, and their implications for sustainable data systems in developing economies.
Keywords: Georgia, Census, Agricultural Census, GIS, CAWI, CAPI, Digital Innovation, Integrated Data Systems.