**Georgian Dream’s Legislative Changes Criticized**
The Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA) has strongly criticized recent legislative changes proposed by the ruling Georgian Dream party. GYLA warns that these changes could undermine democratic principles and roll back vital reforms.
**Rushed Through Parliament**
The amendments were rushed through parliament on December 11, 2024, during a time of massive human rights violations in the country. The GD parliament likely to pass them before the end of the autumn session. GYLA claims that the amendments have been pushed through using a simplified procedure.
**Electoral Legislation Changes**
GYLA accuses the GD of attempting to tailor electoral legislation to narrow partisan interests. The changes would give the ruling party an unfair advantage ahead of the 2025 local elections. According to GYLA, the majoritarian component in local government elections is increasing again and returning to the 2017 level.
**Other Concerns**
GYLA also raised concerns about amendments to the Law on Police, which would allow for non-competitive appointments to police ranks. This could facilitate the appointment of politically loyal officers at the expense of public trust and neutrality. The watchdog also slammed amendments to the Law on Assembly and Manifestation that would prohibit demonstrators from wearing masks or using certain technical devices.
**Public Service Law Changes**
GYLA expressed concern about changes to the Civil Service Law, which would make it easier to dismiss unwanted civil servants. This could give heads of public institutions more power to change employees‘ performance appraisals, opening the door to political interference in the civil service and eroding protections for civil servants.
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