Georgian Ombudsman criticizes legislative amendments passed amid pro-European protests

The Georgian Public Defender has expressed concerns over recent legislative changes rapidly adopted by the ruling Georgian Dream party, particularly during ongoing pro-European demonstrations. Among the controversial amendments are a ban on wearing masks at protests and the simplification of reorganization procedures in public service.

The amendments, spanning eight laws, were passed in an expedited process without adequate public or expert consultation. The Ombudsman criticized this rushed approach, stating that it undermines the legislative process and fails to meet human rights protection standards.

One of the key changes involves amendments to the Law on Public Service, which remove the right of individuals dismissed during reorganization to appeal for reinstatement. According to the Ombudsman, this creates unequal conditions compared to those dismissed for other reasons. Furthermore, heads and deputies of primary structural units will no longer be classified as professional public servants, making their appointments subject to administrative contracts, significantly reducing labor protections and contradicting principles such as career progression and merit-based service.

Another contentious amendment bans wearing masks during protests. While such restrictions exist in other countries, the Ombudsman emphasized that international human rights standards and European Court of Human Rights practices indicate that these bans must not be absolute and should balance freedom of expression with public safety concerns.

The amendments also increase penalties for certain administrative offenses, including substantial fines and, in some cases, administrative detention. For instance, protesters using pyrotechnics or lasers during demonstrations could face fines of 2,000 GEL. The Ombudsman warned that these fines might impose a heavy financial burden on individuals, considering the economic conditions in Georgia.

Human rights advocates have raised alarm that these legislative initiatives could be used to suppress dissent and further consolidate authoritarian practices by the ruling party. The amendments now await either the President’s signature or a parliamentary override in the event of a veto.

The proposed changes come amid growing international criticism and escalating tensions in the country, as citizens demand democratic reforms and expedited negotiations for EU integration.