**Public Defender Criticizes Parliament‘s Rushed Legislation**
The Public Defender of Georgia has criticized the parliament for passing new laws without proper consultation. The legislation was adopted on December 13.
One part of the law changes deals with the Civil Service Law. It makes it easier to fire people in government jobs, but doesn’t provide enough protection for them. This change was made after hundreds of civil servants supported Georgia’s bid to join the European Union. The government says this is a way to “self-clean” the service.
The Public Defender also objects to new rules that allow politicians to appoint their own people to head government departments. This reduces job security and goes against the principles of a professional civil service.
Another change makes it illegal for people to wear masks during public meetings, such as protests. However, this rule should be conditional on international human rights standards and national laws.
The Public Defender also worries that the new law increases fines and allows imprisonment for some violations. This could put an unfair burden on people who break the rules.
These changes were passed by the parliament without proper discussion or consultation with experts and other stakeholders.
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