**Georgian Ministry’s Changes to Diplomatic Service Regulations Criticized**
The Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA) has issued a critical assessment of changes to diplomatic service regulations introduced by the government. The changes, made through an order on January 27, 2025, have been criticized for being inconsistent with the Law of Georgia on Diplomatic Service.
**Key Issues with the Changes**
The GYLA has highlighted several issues with the changes:
* The new provisions allow contract termination with just one month’s notice, a regulation that was previously ruled unconstitutional.
* The amendments introduce provisions allowing contract termination with just one month’s notice, which contradicts fundamental democratic principles and weakens institutional integrity.
* The changes further erode the stability and impartiality of Georgia’s civil service by making officials vulnerable to arbitrary dismissals.
**Impact on Public Servants**
The GYLA has also highlighted the impact of the changes on public servants, stating that:
* Since November 28, 2024, public servants who voiced criticism of government policies have reportedly faced increased pressure, including direct and indirect threats of dismissal.
* More than 50 civil servants in Georgia had been dismissed since the start of pro-EU protests, with many suspecting that their removal was not justified by contract termination.
**Calls for Action**
The GYLA has called on the government to take action, urging the Foreign Minister to disclose whether the new provisions have been applied to legal relations arising since January 1, 2025.