The Law School of the Free University of Tbilisi, with USAID Rule of Law Program support, hosted a conference on human rights issues. The central theme was: the Role of the Public Defender's Office (PDO) and its Development Prospects.

The conference enabled thirty-seven students to gain a comprehensive understanding of the significant role played by PDO and its constitutional responsibilities.

The conference consisted of two panels, each featuring noteworthy speakers. The first panel included Giorgi Mshvenieradze, an assistant professor at Free University; Nona Kurdovanidze, Chairperson of the Georgian Young Lawyers' Association; and Teimuraz Tughushi, a judge from the Constitutional Court of Georgia.

The second panel was led by Vakhtang Khmaladze, a former member of the Georgian Parliament and a member of the Constitutional Commission, along with Giorgi Beraia, a guest lecturer at Free University.

The conference was moderated by Giorgi Burjanadze, a professor at Free University and the former Deputy Public Defender of Georgia (2017-2023).

Throughout the conference, the speakers engaged in insightful discussions covering a wide range of topics. These included the historical background and evolution of the PDO in Georgia, the legislative framework and the institution’s areas of operation, the constitutional significance of the Public Defender, the submission of Constitutional Claims and amicus curiae briefs, the process of selecting the Public Defender, challenges confronting the PDO, and the institute's relationship with both governmental bodies and non-governmental organizations.

At the conclusion of each panel, the speakers took part in a Q&A session addressing questions posed by the attendees. The questions raised revolved around the activities of the Public Defender, including their legislative regulations, election process, and overall functioning. Participants also actively discussed the prospects for the development of the PDO, exploring potential avenues for improvement and advancement.

Through this conference the students gained an appreciation of the importance of the PDO, the way it operates, and the challenges it confronts.