Parliament of Georgia adopted a new law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

On 14 July 2020, law of Georgia on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities was published on the website of the Legislative Herald of Georgia.

Law sets forth basic principles and methods for the persons with disabilities to have equal opportunities for the full participation in every field of life and to leave independently, free from discrimination.  

Law established rights and obligations of administrative bodies and private persons in the process of implementing principles and methods prescribed by this law;

Law lists following rights of persons with disabilities and provides guarantees for their implementation: equality before the law; independent living; prohibition of discrimination; education; protection of health; habilitation and rehabilitation; work and employment; protection from exploitation, violence and degrading treatment; social protection; participation in political and public life…

Law introduces the functions of a special claimant and personal assistant. Special Claimant is a non-profit organization registered as such and is an interested party, which protects the interests of persons with disabilities in administrative and civil legal proceedings without needing the right of legal representation. Personal assistant is a person who voluntarily assists disabled persons for the purposes of enhancing their living conditions and control over their lives in the process of obtaining education, at work, while using public services or in their everyday lives.

Law became effective upon its publication. However, substantial part of it enters into force on January 1, 2021.

Source and date of publication: Legislative Herald of Georgia, 14.07.2020.