The Kutaisi City Court joined the list of Georgia’s inclusive public spaces in 2024. Thanks to assistance from the German Government and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), the court’s premises have been adapted to the needs of wheelchair users and people with visual impairments. The Georgian NGO ‘Mariani’, one of the leading civic advocates for the rights of persons with disabilities, provided consultancy and practical support for the project.
With up to GEL 350,000 in funding from Germany, the renovations included the installation of platform stairlifts for wheelchairs and tactile paths for the visually impaired. Bathrooms on the basement floor were adapted for persons with mobility and visual impairments, and wheelchair lifts and tactile signs were installed to ensure easy access.
“Germany is proud to support the adaptation of the Kutaisi City Court for persons with disabilities, ensuring access to justice and legal services for all,” said H.E. Peter Fischer, Ambassador of Germany to Georgia. “Involving persons with disabilities at every stage of design was crucial. We believe that inclusive public spaces are fundamental to participation in society and welcome ongoing efforts to build an inclusive environment in Georgia.”
“Inclusion is the foundation for protecting human rights and upholding the rule of law,” noted Nils Christensen, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Georgia. “Justice service sites, such as courts and legal aid centers, should set an example by creating inclusive spaces that foster a sense of belonging, respect, and dignity for everyone.”
Despite significant strides towards inclusivity over the past decade, persons with disabilities remain among the most vulnerable social groups in Georgia. National efforts to build an inclusive environment are focused on several key areas. These include adapting public spaces such as Parliament, Public Service Halls, and Legal Aid Centers; developing disability-sensitive legislation and services; and promoting coordination between the public and civic sectors to effectively implement the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Much of this work is supported by Georgian civil society and international organizations, including the United Nations, the European Union, Germany, Sweden, and the UK Government.
Background Information:
Through the $1.62 million ‘Improving the Rule of Law and Access to Justice for All’ project, UNDP and Germany enhance the capacities of rule of law institutions and promote legal empowerment and socio-economic resilience among disadvantaged communities in Georgia. Inclusive access to justice is one of the areas covered by the project.
By Ana Dumbadze
