Georgian Dream Introduces Bill to Amend Diplomatic Service Law Amid MFA Reorganization Concerns
By Liza Mchedlidze
Wednesday, May 7, 2025
Georgian Dream has introduced a bill in parliament to amend the Law on Diplomatic Service, which would allow for the early recall of diplomats who breach ethical standards or act against the government's foreign policy. The bill, prepared by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), comes shortly after reports of a potential restructuring within the MFA, sparking concerns from opposition parties about politically motivated layoffs targeting pro-EU diplomats.
The proposed amendments to Article 4 of the law would require diplomats to "strictly adhere to general rules of ethics and conduct." Additionally, the bill outlines plans for the Ministry to establish these rules through an administrative legal act.
The changes also introduce provisions for the early recall of diplomats who violate the Ministry's ethical standards or take actions that could harm Georgia's interests or contradict its foreign policy. The explanatory note clarifies that such violations, particularly those conflicting with policies defined by the Georgian Parliament, would be grounds for an early recall.
Under the proposed amendments, diplomatic officials and staff would undergo performance evaluations twice a year instead of once. Furthermore, the maximum rotation period for heads of mission and other staff would be extended from six months to up to one year.
The party argues that the amendments are necessary to address "current challenges" and reflect the evolving institutional landscape.
The timing of the bill has raised questions, especially given recent reports about a potential reorganization of the MFA. On May 1, media outlets reported plans to dismantle the Directorate General for European Integration, sparking concern from opposition groups. Grigol Gegelia of the opposition coalition Strong Georgia alleged that around 250 people could be laid off, many of whom had supported Georgia's EU integration and criticized Georgian Dream's decision to pause the EU accession process in late 2024.
The MFA has denied these allegations, stating that the Directorate General for European Integration will not be abolished but rather merged into a new Political Directorate for European Affairs. The Ministry has not commented on the reported layoffs but emphasized that the reform aims to strengthen Georgia's relations with European countries.
