From July 2-12, 2024, the Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA) met legal professionals and civil society representatives in Kutaisi, Batumi, Telavi, and Gori to discuss challenges within the justice system. These sessions were part of GYLA’s monitoring project, supported by the USAID Rule of Law program.

Facilitated by representatives of GYLA’s Democratic Institutions Support and Human Rights Programs, discussions focused on challenges identified through GYLA’s monitoring of the High Council of Justice (HCoJ) and the Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi City Courts. GYLA shared its observation that the appointment of non-judge members to the HCoJ, which took place after a significant delay, did not foster an open discussion of problematic issues within the Council. In fact, the Council became far less transparent, frequently failing to publish meeting minutes or respond to Freedom of Information Act requests made by Georgian CSOs.

Discussions revealed several shortcomings related to criminal proceedings, which have substantial implications for the rights to freedom and security, fair trial, and effective legal protection of individuals. GYLA representatives discussed court transparency and the right to a timely hearing. They noted that courts often fail to publish information about first-appearance hearings and sometimes hold these in small rooms despite significant public interest. Participants were interested in the implementation of European Commission recommendations for Georgia's EU integration process and other relevant issues.

The events attracted participants from local non-governmental organizations, media representatives legal professionals and students, totaling 70 attendees.