A new legislative proposal put forward by members of the Georgian Dream party seeks to extend vital social protection benefits to the Public Defender and the employees of the Public Defender’s Office. The bill, presented to Parliament, aims to provide these individuals with the same protections offered to public servants under the “Public Service Law.” Specifically, the legislation introduces provisions for safeguards related to injury or death incurred during official duties.
Key to the proposal is the introduction of mandatory state insurance for both the Public Defender and their staff. The initiators of the bill note that approximately 130 individuals would benefit from this coverage, with the annual cost per individual ranging between 1900 to 2300 GEL (roughly 160 to 190 GEL monthly).
In justifying the bill, its supporters highlight the critical role that the employees of the Public Defender’s Office play in safeguarding human rights and freedoms. These individuals are actively involved in identifying rights violations, promoting the restoration of these rights, and addressing a wide range of complex social and legal issues. Their work often brings them into direct contact with vulnerable groups, while simultaneously navigating emotionally challenging situations. Furthermore, their responsibilities sometimes require them to visit high-risk environments, where both physical and psychological threats are a concern.
The bill’s proponents emphasize the heightened risks these employees face due to the nature of their roles, including exposure to mental stress, physical strain, and burnout. The legislative initiative aims to mitigate these risks by offering additional support and ensuring that the individuals working in such a high-pressure environment are not left vulnerable to health or safety issues as a result of their duties.
The proposed legislation also stresses the importance of maintaining a motivated and well-supported workforce within the Public Defender’s Office. By providing employees with robust social protection, including health insurance and welfare assistance, the bill is designed to reduce work-related stress. This, in turn, would allow staff to focus more effectively on their critical tasks, enhancing their professional performance and overall job satisfaction.
