MPs from the ruling Georgian Dream party have introduced a new draft law aimed at strengthening the social security of the Public Defender and employees within the Public Defender’s Office.
The proposed legislation seeks to extend social security guarantees, including protections for bodily injury or death while on duty, to those working within the human rights institution.
Under the draft, employees of the Public Defender’s Office will also be covered by mandatory state insurance. According to the bill’s sponsors, by the time the law is enacted, around 130 individuals will be included in the insurance program. The cost of insurance for each employee is expected to range from 1,900 to 2,300 GEL annually (approximately 160 to 190 GEL per month).
The initiators argued that employees of the Public Defender’s Office play a crucial role in improving human rights standards, identifying violations, and restoring rights that have been infringed upon. Given the sensitive and often challenging nature of their work, which includes dealing with vulnerable groups, tackling emotionally charged issues, and occasionally engaging in potentially risky environments, these employees face elevated risks to their physical and mental well-being, the bill said.
The draft law aims to alleviate these risks by providing additional protection mechanisms for staff. These measures include coverage for injury or death during official duties, along with state insurance to reduce psychological stress, physical strain, and professional burnout.
In an explanatory note attached to the draft, lawmakers emphasized that ensuring proper social security for these individuals would not only protect their health but also enhance their performance and job satisfaction.
