The Republic of Georgia has experienced recent backsliding in its democratic reform and EU accession process, namely in areas of civic space and equal rights for women and LGBTI+ persons. Repressive and restrictive legislation under consideration or recently passed present a significant setback for a country, where, since regaining independence, there has been vocal support – online and on the streets – for full participation in the community of democracies.

To address the rollback on civic space, civil society has responded with intensified efforts to advocate for equal protection. This has included public debates and discussions as well as physical manifestations on the streets of Tbilisi. Despite the challenges, Georgian civil society continues its crucial role as a watchdog and advocate for civil rights, including defending the rights of persons at risk of being targeted by the current government.

In this panel discussion, Civil Rights Defenders will moderate an exchange on protecting equality during times of transition with representatives from Georgian Young Lawyers Association (GYLA), Civil Equality Platform and Tbilisi Pride.