As part of the ongoing efforts to enhance the understanding of labor rights and related legal practices, a delegation of 10 Georgian judges from the City Courts of Tbilisi, Rustavi, Gori, as well as the Tbilisi Court of Appeals, the Sokhumi, and Gudauta District Courts, embarked on a comprehensive study tour across Washington, DC, and Los Angeles, California.

Organized by the American Bar Association Rule of Law Initiative (ABA ROLI) in collaboration with the USAID Rule of Law Program from April 15 to April 26, 2024, the study tour provided an immersive experience for the Georgian judges, offering them opportunities to engage in a series of sessions, meetings, and court observations dedicated to various aspects of labor rights and related matters.

In Washington, DC, the visit began with an introductory session led by speakers from ABA ROLI. The judges learned about the organization's global work and met with Robin Runge, Chair of the ABA Civil Rights & Social Justice Section. They also met experts from United States Agency for International Development (USAID), gaining insights into its role in promoting human rights worldwide.

Transitioning to Los Angeles, California, the delegation continued their exploration of labor rights issues with visits to institutions such as the Stanley Mosk Courthouse and the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. Through observations of court hearings and meetings with esteemed judges and legal experts, the Georgian judges gained firsthand exposure to the complexities of labor law and judicial practices in the U.S. context.

Among the highlights of the tour was a meeting with Bet Tzedek, a nonprofit law firm located in the heart of Los Angeles, where the delegation had the opportunity to engage with Diego Cartagena, President & CEO of Bet Tzedek, and Mary Ross, head of Bet Tzedek’s Employment Team. The session provided valuable insights into Bet Tzedek's efforts to provide equitable access to justice for all, particularly in the realm of labor rights and employment law.

The tour also included informative meetings with organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Washington Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights and Urban Affairs, and the National Women’s Law Center, where the judges’ gained insights into various dimensions of labor rights advocacy and litigation. Reflecting on their experiences, the Georgian judges expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with U.S. counterparts and deepen their understanding of labor rights issues.