LocationsGermany and UNDP help adapt the Kutaisi City Court to the needs of persons with disabilities
Building an Inclusive Environment in Georgia
July 24, 2024
Photo: UNDP/Vladimir Valishvili
The Kutaisi City Court joined the list of Georgia’s inclusive public spaces in 2024. Thanks to assistance from the German Government and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the court’s premises have been adapted to the needs of wheelchair users and people with visual impairments. The Georgian NGO ‘Mariani’, one of the leading civic advocates for the rights of persons with disabilities, provided consultancy and practical support for the project.
With up to GEL350,000 in funding from Germany, the renovations included the installation of platform stairlifts for wheelchairs and tactile paths for the visually impaired. Bathrooms on the basement floor were adapted for persons with mobility and visual impairments, and wheelchair lifts and tactile signs were installed to ensure easy access.
“Germany is proud to support the adaptation of the Kutaisi City Court for persons with disabilities, ensuring access to justice and legal services for all. Involving persons with disabilities at every stage of design was crucial. We believe that inclusive public spaces are fundamental to participation in society and welcome ongoing efforts to build an inclusive environment in Georgia.”H.E. Peter Fischer, the Ambassador of Germany to Georgia
“Inclusion is the foundation for protecting human rights and upholding the rule of law. Justice service sites, such as courts and legal aid centres, should set an example by creating inclusive spaces that foster a sense of belonging, respect, and dignity for everyone.”Nils Christensen, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Georgia
Despite significant strides towards inclusivity over the past decade, persons with disabilities remain among the most vulnerable social groups in Georgia. National efforts to build an inclusive environment are focused on several key areas. These include adapting public spaces such as Parliament, Public Service Halls, and Legal Aid Centres; developing disability-sensitive legislation and services; and promoting coordination between the public and civic sectors to effectively implement the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Much of this work is supported by Georgian civil society and international organizations, including the United Nations, the European Union, Germany, Sweden, and the UK Government.
Background Information:
Through the US$1.62 million 'Improving the Rule of Law and Access to Justice for All' project, UNDP and Germany enhance the capacities of rule of law institutions and promote legal empowerment and socio-economic resilience among disadvantaged communities in Georgia. Inclusive access to justice is one of the areas covered by the project.
Media Contacts:
- Sophie Tchitchinadze, UNDP, +995 599 196907, sophie.tchitchinadze@undp.org
- Elene Sakvarelidze, UNDP, +995 599 003944, elene.sakvarelidze@undp.org
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