The working group under the Defense and Security Committee held its first organizational meeting. The head of the working group, Chairman of the Defense and Security Committee, Irakli Beraia, introduced the specifics and procedures of the work to the members of the group.

According to him, complex approaches are needed against organized crime.

Irakli Beraia stated that in terms of the working group’s future activities, a special questionnaire will be created that will take into account the present legislative and institutional environment, the mechanisms of international cooperation against organized crime, the advancement of Georgia’s fulfillment of its commitments, practical experience, current difficulties, and areas that still require improvement.

“At the meeting, we decided on the workflow, due dates, and general guidelines for the proposal evaluation and writing process. The EU recommendation specifically calls for strengthening the fight against organized crime, based on a thorough threat assessment, as well as rigorous investigative actions, successful investigations, criminal prosecutions, and the production of reliable statistics, both in terms of charges and convictions. Additionally, accountability and oversight of law enforcement organizations are concerns. It will be interesting to hear civil society’s perspectives during the course of the work, what gaps they identify in the field of combating organized crime, and what the obstacles are. A thorough analysis of the current situation and subsequent conclusion should be reached in order to decide appropriate next steps in order to further improve the battle against organized crime”, - said Irakli Beraia.

Working sessions will be scheduled as needed and in accordance with certain themes. Members of the group, including legislators, officials from the executive branch, and individuals from non-governmental groups, voiced their thoughts and indicated that they are willing to participate in group activities.