The USAID Rule of Law Program supported comprehensive mediation training for staff members of the Public Defender’s Office (PDO) as part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing the institution’s capabilities.

Representatives from the Equality Department attended the training, along with representatives from the Gender Department, Child Rights Department, and the Department for the Protection of Persons with Disabilities.

The Equality Department, Georgia’s national equality body within the Public Defender’s Office, plays an important role in addressing discrimination across all spheres of life, as mandated by the Law of Georgia on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination. The Department handles cases of discrimination through applications or complaints and is authorized to facilitate mediation when appropriate.

Veko Dodashvili, an expert and founding member of the Mediators Association of Georgia (MAG), conducted the training.

The two-day training, held on June 18-19, focused on practical aspects, emphasizing the latest practices in mediation in Georgia and highlighting successful cases that were effectively addressed through settlement. The training program covered various topics, including the principles and techniques of mediation, effective communication skills, managing conflicts, facilitating negotiation, and reaching mutually beneficial agreements.

Twenty-two participants also had the opportunity to engage in role-playing practical exercises, followed by discussions and evaluations of their performance.