The Steering Committee of the Project “Further Enhancement of Social and Economic Rights in Georgia” held its first meeting on 14 March 2024 in Tbilisi. Building upon the achievements of its predecessor, the "Strengthening Protection of Social and Economic Rights in Georgia" (2021-23), this new initiative aims to bolster the protection of social rights in alignment with European standards and best practices. For this reason, the Project focuses on strengthening the capacities of Georgian authorities, National Human Rights Institutions (HNRIs), Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and other relevant stakeholders for better provision and promotion of social and economic rights, with a particular focus on social rights of persons with disabilities and older persons. In addition, the Project aims to promote and raise awareness of social rights and the European Social Charter (ESC) among target groups and the public in general, addressing, among others, the non-take-up of rights.

Participants discussed the Project outline and defined priorities for the upcoming 6 months. The Council of Europe project intervention and logic were welcomed. The Project documentation, which lays out the basis of future work and activities, was approved unanimously.

The meeting also provided valuable advice on the way forward and on the possibilities of future synergies among different institutions involved. All the stakeholders present expressed their readiness to continue their close cooperation with the Council of Europe and agreed on the consistent feedback plan regarding the documents presented and other relevant topics.

The Steering Committee members include representatives of the Ministry of Internally Displaced Persons from the Occupied Territories, Labour, Health and Social Affairs, LEPL Labour Inspection Office, Public Defender’s Office of Georgia and other relevant institutions.

The meeting was organised within the framework of the Council of Europe Project “Further Enhancement of Social and Economic Rights in Georgia.” The Project is part of the Council of Europe Action Plan for Georgia 2024-2027.