Georgian Judicial Practice on Labor Disputes: Compilation of Decisions

With the support of CIPE, a valuable resource for employers has been developed in the Georgian language, to enhance employers’ understanding of judicial practices and labor law in Georgia.

The second edition of Georgian Judicial Practice on Labor Disputes: Compilation of Decisions by Dr. Zakaria Shvelidze provides a thorough analysis of judicial rulings that have shaped labor law following the significant reform to Georgia’s Labor Code in September 2020. This reform introduced measures addressing anti-discrimination, employment contracts, working hours, rest periods, and termination practices. The establishment of the Labor Inspection Office in 2021 further underscored the state’s commitment to enforcing labor standards. This compilation captures judicial trends from 2021 to 2024, offering invaluable insights for legal practitioners, academics, and policymakers as Georgia adapts its labor legislation to evolving social and economic needs.

The book is systematically organized into ten chapters, each addressing a fundamental area of labor law:

• Chapter One provides an overview of the core principles of Georgian labor law, serving as a foundation for subsequent judicial interpretations.
• Chapter Two explores cases of labor discrimination, emphasizing the evidentiary value of Public Defender recommendations.
• Chapters Three and Four analyze employment contracts and working time regulations, respectively, including fixed-term contracts and overtime issues.
• Chapters Five through Seven cover employee rights to leave, remuneration disputes, and occupational safety and health cases.
• Chapter Eight examines termination of employment contracts, detailing various scenarios and their legal consequences.
• Chapter Nine discusses judicial perspectives on the transfer of enterprises.
• Chapter Ten addresses the prohibition of competition in labor relations.

The compilation features decisions from the Supreme Court, Courts of Appeal, and city courts, providing a balanced view of how legislative reforms have influenced workplace legalities. By presenting judicial rulings without authorial commentary, the book ensures neutrality, enabling readers to form their own interpretations of labor law developments.

This resource not only serves as a reference for the legal community but also fosters informed dialogue on the practical implications of labor law in Georgia. As labor legislation continues to evolve, this publication stands as an indispensable tool for navigating labor disputes and promoting equitable workplace practices.

Funding is provided by the United States Department of Labor under cooperative agreement number IL- 32531-18-75 K, through a subaward to the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) from the Solidarity Center. 100% of the total cost of the project or program is financed with federal funds, for a total of $2 million. This material does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the United States Department of Labor, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations imply endorsement by the United States Government.