The Public Defender of Georgia on Tuesday determined that the Wolt company had engaged in discriminatory practices against its couriers, following allegations of mistreatment about working conditions and related rallies last year. 

According to official statements from the Ombudsman's office, evidence presented during the investigation revealed that the company had unjustly restricted courier access to its application, citing alleged breaches of labor duties, particularly for engaging in public discourse regarding work-related issues and participating in protests.

The Ombudsman asserted that couriers, irrespective of their contractual status as "partners," are entitled to protections under labor laws, effectively categorizing them as individuals in an employment relationship with the company. Critically, the Ombudsman highlighted contractual clauses allowing the termination of employment for those who refuse to use the application during protests as potentially discriminatory.

The controversy surrounding Wolt escalated in early 2023 when couriers organized demonstrations advocating for improved labor rights. Subsequently, several couriers ceased collaboration with the company due to ongoing disputes.

Prompted by a courier's complaint on August 23, the Public Defender launched an inquiry into the alleged discrimination, focusing on instances of application blockages tied to expressions of dissent regarding working conditions and involvement in protest activities.