GYLA Condemns Georgian Dream's Legislative Changes, Warns of Democratic Backsliding
By Liza Mchedlidze
Friday, December 13, 2024
The Georgian Young Lawyers' Association (GYLA) has strongly criticized recent legislative changes introduced by the ruling Georgian Dream (GD) party, warning that the amendments threaten democratic principles and risk reversing essential reforms. The watchdog highlighted concerns over rushed procedures and sweeping changes affecting electoral laws, public service protections, police appointments, and civil liberties.
In a statement, GYLA condemned the government's approach, noting that the changes were pushed through "under conditions of massive human rights violations" during ongoing pro-European protests. The amendments were introduced in parliament on December 11 and have already passed their first reading, with final approval expected before the end of the autumn session.
GYLA accused the GD of tailoring electoral laws to consolidate its hold on power ahead of the 2025 local elections. The proposed changes increase the majoritarian component in local elections to 2017 levels and raise the proportional threshold to 4%, up from 2.5% in Tbilisi.
"This is happening under circumstances where a unilaterally adopted amendment in spring 2024 abolished the 40% electoral threshold for electing majoritarian members of city councils," GYLA stated. The watchdog warned that the changes disproportionately benefit larger political factions and eliminate safeguards like a second round of voting, making it harder for smaller parties to compete.
Proposed amendments to the Civil Service Law have also drawn criticism. GYLA warned that removing provisions protecting civil servants from arbitrary dismissal during reorganizations and limiting judicial oversight could open the door to political interference. The changes would make it harder for dismissed civil servants to challenge unfair terminations, further eroding protections.
GYLA raised alarms over amendments to the Law on Police, which would allow for non-competitive appointments across police ranks. While presented as necessary for certain police units, the changes grant sweeping powers to the Minister of Internal Affairs, heightening fears of further politicization.
"The growing use of police forces for political purposes, including violent crackdowns on protests, is deeply concerning," GYLA stated. The watchdog warned that these changes could undermine public trust and lead to the appointment of politically loyal officers.
GYLA also criticized amendments to the Law on Assembly and Manifestation, which would prohibit protesters from wearing masks or using specific devices. Citing international norms, GYLA described the measures as disproportionate and repressive, particularly in light of recent crackdowns on peaceful demonstrations.
"The government's pattern of silencing dissent continues with these changes, intimidating demonstrators and stifling opposition voices," the organization warned. The proposed measures also include higher fines for disrupting traffic or damaging property, further restricting protest activities.
The watchdog highlighted changes to the Law on the State Protection Special Service, which tie security for high-ranking officials to constitutional court rulings on impeachment violations. GYLA sees this as a direct attack on the independence of the presidency, particularly amidst tensions between Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili and the ruling party.
"This amendment clearly demonstrates the personification of the norms of the law," GYLA stated, accusing the GD of consolidating power at the expense of institutional independence.
The organization called on the international community to monitor the situation closely and support efforts to safeguard democratic values and human rights in Georgia.
"These amendments represent a step backward for democratic development," GYLA emphasized, urging Georgian authorities to reverse course and prioritize reforms that uphold transparency, fairness, and the rule of law.
