The Venice Commission [VC] published a report on the judicial reform of Georgia, which discusses the recommendations that have been implemented, not implemented or partially implemented.

The VC welcomes some of the amendments adopted in June 2023, as well as the amendments of September 2023, but notes that some of the previous recommendations have not yet been met.

According to the conclusion, it is necessary to fulfill the 1st main recommendation, which implies a comprehensive reform of the Supreme Council of Justice, which is a similar request of the EU Commission in its conclusion on Georgia’s application for joining the EU. In particular, the comprehensive reform of the Supreme Council of Justice means to review its functions, decision-making process and the method of electing members.

As the report reads, the 2ond recommendation, which refers to the limitation of the authority to transfer judges of the Supreme Council of Justice, remains outstanding. The VC notes that the 3rd recommendation, which provided for the revision of the procedure for dismissal of judges, has been implemented. The 4th and 5th recommendations, which refer to the disciplinary responsibility of judges, can be considered partially fulfilled.