The development of innovative and people-centered justice is essential for ensuring equal access to justice, promoting fairness, and conserving valuable resources within the legal system. These approaches not only reduce repetition and strengthen communities, but also align with global best practices and protect human rights.

Twenty-six inspired and motivated law students have recently completed the inaugural Innovative Justice School in Georgia, which was organized (October 13-15, 2023) as part of an exciting collaboration between Tbilisi State University (TSU) Faculty of Law, the Centre for Justice Innovation in New York and the USAID Rule of Law Program.

Undergraduate and master's degree students from 10 different universities, and various regions, including Tbilisi State University, Akaki Tsereteli State University, Tbilisi Free University, Grigol Robakidze University, Sulkhan Saba University, GIPA, Black Sea University, SEU, New Vision University and University of Georgia, had the opportunity to enrich their knowledge in the legal field, explore innovative approaches to justice, and engage with leading experts in the area.

The school’s participants, who were selected from 109 applicants through an open competition, were welcomed by Giorgi Dgebuadze, Deputy Dean at TSU, and Giorgi Chkheidze, Chief of Party of the USAID Rule of Law Program.

Giorgi Chkheidze stated that “the USAID Rule of Law Program is a strong supporter of legal education in Georgia, partnering with both state and private universities across the country to support law students. This school, held in partnership with TSU, is a prime example of our collaborative efforts to enhance legal education in Georgia." Chkheidze also emphasized the importance of the initiative for the future of the Georgian justice system. "People-centered and innovative justice is a priority for our program. It places the needs, concerns, and rights of individuals at the forefront of legal processes. Prioritizing the well-being and empowerment of citizens ensures a fair and equitable system that builds trust and inclusivity in society."

Giorgi Dgebuadze said that "Ensuring the commitment to upholding the rule of law among the students, from the undergraduate level, and fostering their active engagement in extracurricular pursuits stands as a paramount objective for TSU Faculty of Law. Within the Innovative Justice School, supported by USAID, students had the unique opportunity to acquaint themselves with the most exemplary global practices related to matters of justice, as presented by both local and international experts. For us, it is essential that our students keep abreast of contemporary and innovative trends in the administration of justice. We foresee a deepening of collaboration and the implementation of a myriad of compelling joint projects, which will further enhance the professional development of our students.”

Marika Turava, a faculty member at the TSU Faculty of Law, discussed the role of legal education in promoting innovative justice. Mariam Gobronidze, the USAID Rule of Law Program's Community Engagement Coordinator, presented theories on access to justice and, with active involvement of the students, analyzed the common barriers hindering access to justice in Georgia, such as the low level of legal awareness, problems related to the territorial and physical accessibility of courts, as well as the financial, cultural, or social barriers.

Tim Bunjevac, the USAID Rule of Law Program's Community Engagement Advisor, shared examples of people-centered justice from around the world and devoted a separate session to discussing the latest innovations in court governance and management. Irakli Gelovani, the USAID Rule of Law Program's ADR Advisor, provided valuable insights into alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, such as mediation and arbitration. Moris Shalikashvili, an Associate Professor at TSU Faculty of Law, delved into the topic of restorative justice, while Sergi Jorbenadze, an Associate Professor at TSU Faculty of Law, provided a case analysis about the convergence of technology and law in practice with the school participants. Giorgi Dgebuadze from TSU also delivered a session about the latest legal innovations in International criminal law, such as the use of hybrid jurisdictions.

The school also featured two US experts in innovative and people-centered justice, who appeared via video-link. Danielle Pugh, Director of Judicial Education and Leadership Program at the Center for Justice Innovation, discussed the importance of procedural justice and Sruthi Naraharisetti, Senior Research Associate at the same organization talked about the use of legal needs surveys. Anne Mckeig, a State Supreme Court Justice from Minnesota, spoke about the role of judges in implementing innovative justice initiatives.

The participants of the School of Innovative Justice expressed their appreciation and enthusiasm for the program's diverse and comprehensive curriculum, which enriched their understanding of contemporary international justice trends. Nikoloz Kobakhidze emphasized the uniqueness of each training session, characterizing them as ‘captivating,’ due to their thematic diversity, interactive nature, and engaging activities. Looking ahead, Nikoloz envisions incorporating the valuable insights acquired during the program into his upcoming master's thesis at the National University of Georgia SEU.

Elene Ghatchava, a 20-year-old international law student from Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, spoke about the transformation of her perception of innovative justice after attending the seminars. She highlighted that justice now embodies the application of fresh, imaginative approaches in addressing issues within the legal system. This includes exploring alternative avenues to conventional punitive measures, such as restorative justice practices, diversion programs, and community-oriented justice initiatives. Innovative justice aspires to foster fairness, equity, and efficiency in conflict resolution and the reduction of recidivism.

Ghatchava emphasized, “As individuals, we can actively engage in the rehabilitation and reintegration of former inmates, demonstrating increased tolerance and compassion. Initiating change begins with raising awareness within the broader community. We should prioritize alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation, and arbitration. It's imperative to bear in mind that justice must not only be served but must also unmistakably appear to be served."

Mariam Mikeladze, a fourth-year student at TSU, shared her perspective about the program and how the provided information proved enlightening and inspired a vision towards more innovative approaches to justice.

She noted, "With the evolution of technology, the need for change has become increasingly apparent. This experience reinforced the notion that future lawyers, regardless of their specific focus, must possess critical thinking skills, adaptability to face challenges, and readiness for innovative solutions. This program provided us with the chance to broaden our horizons and contemplate the integration of innovation into the realm of justice."

The school concluded with a series of student-led group presentations outlining projects incorporating the practice and theory of People-Centered Justice.  These included a short movie about the deficiencies of traditional court proceedings, a proposal to establish a multi-disciplinary Centre for Access to Justice, as well as a website that would integrate the expertise of practitioners, academics and judges to offer free legal resources to people who can’t afford to seek advice from a lawyer.