Georgian ruling party fast-tracks judicial reform package despite concerns over media, expression limits

Georgia’s ruling Georgian Dream party is fast-tracking a controversial legislative package that introduces sweeping changes to the country’s judicial system, including measures that restrict media activity in courts and broaden sanctions on public criticism of judges.

The five-part amendment to the Law on Common Courts is being reviewed in an accelerated procedure, with all three readings expected to be completed in parliament this week.

Among the most debated changes are provisions that expand the definition of interference in judicial independence and introduce new limitations on how judges may be spoken about publicly.

Under the proposed changes, any verbal or non-verbal expression deemed “disrespectful” toward a judge - whether during court proceedings or in a public setting - may be punishable under law. This includes criticism by parties involved in legal cases, journalists, or members of the public.

Additionally, communications with judges during ongoing proceedings - including those by public officials, lawyers, or members of the public - are explicitly prohibited if they may be seen as influencing judicial independence. Violations may result in fines of up to 5,000 GEL or disciplinary action in the case of public servants.

Another significant change delays public access to court rulings until they enter into force. Under current legislation, such documents are made public immediately after adoption.

The draft law proposes major structural reforms in the court system, increasing the term lengths for judicial leadership positions at all levels.

The Chairperson of the Supreme Court Chamber will now serve for 10 years, up from 5.

Judges of the Grand Chamber will serve 3-year terms instead of 2.

Chairpersons of the Court of Appeal and city courts will also see their terms extended to 10 years.

The Council of Justice will gain the authority to transfer judges to other courts for up to three years without their consent, though such decisions must be supported by two-thirds of the Council and can be appealed.

Promotions will also be more accessible: judges in city courts may now qualify for promotion after three years instead of five.

The composition of the influential High Council of Justice will be revised. Under the new law:

The Council will include 15 members: 11 elected by the judiciary, 2 by parliament with a three-fifths majority, and 1 appointed by the President.

Currently, parliament elects 5 members, and the judiciary appoints 8.

The article detailing the role of the Council’s Independent Inspector - tasked with assessing complaints against judges - will be removed.

Authority over the Court Bailiff Service will shift from the Supreme Court Chairperson to a structural unit of the Council, which will also set bailiff salaries.

Judges at all levels of the judiciary, including the Constitutional Court, will receive significant pay rises. According to the new formulas:

The Chairperson of the Supreme Court will earn 14,600 GEL per month.

The Chairperson of the Court of Appeal (currently Mikheil Chinchaladze) will receive 12,264 GEL.

City court chairpersons will earn 11,072 GEL.

Opposition figures and civil society organisations have voiced concern that the amendments risk undermining freedom of expression and increasing political control over the judiciary. The provisions targeting public commentary on judges have been criticised as vague and potentially repressive, particularly for journalists and rights defenders.

Georgian Dream, however, argues the changes will bolster judicial independence, professionalise court leadership, and deter improper influence on the legal system.