Mass Dismissals in Georgia’s Defense Ministry Raise Concerns of Political Repression
By Liza Mchedlidze
Thursday, March 20, 2025
The Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA) has reported that around 150 employees have been dismissed from the Ministry of Defense, with some receiving legal assistance from the organization. GYLA claims the dismissals took place without prior notice and lacked transparency, raising concerns about political motivations behind the layoffs.
According to GYLA, the dismissals stem from a reorganization process within the Ministry, which began without informing employees or conducting a thorough review. Some structural units were abolished, leading to automatic dismissals, while others were transferred to different positions without explanation.
“In parallel with the ongoing protests in the country, hundreds of employees have been dismissed from public institutions. Some have not had their employment contracts renewed for various reasons,” GYLA stated. The organization linked the dismissals to amendments in the Law on Public Service, which were passed by Parliament on December 13, 2024, and are seen as weakening employees’ legal protections.
GYLA also noted that the Public Service Bureau and other institutions are being liquidated, suggesting a broader restructuring effort.
GYLA emphasized that many dismissed employees believe they were targeted due to their support for Georgia’s European integration process or for expressing political opinions within their institutions.
“The dismissal of employees, given existing judicial practice, provides grounds for considering these dismissals as illegal,” the statement said.
Additionally, on January 24, 2025, an amendment to Order No. 582 of the Minister of Defense introduced age limits for employees with special ranks, leading to further dismissals.
GYLA condemned the dismissals, stating that the process was unfair, non-transparent, and violated public sector employees’ rights.
“This process constitutes political repression against public officials. It is particularly worrying that some of those dismissed had signed a statement supporting European integration, which is an example of clear discrimination and a violation of freedom of expression,” GYLA stated.
The organization has called on administrative bodies to immediately halt the illegal dismissals and protect the rights of public servants.
