**Major Victory for Prisoners’ Rights: Ministry of Justice Ends Strip Searches**
In a significant development, the Ministry of Justice in Georgia has accepted the Public Defender’s request to abolish the practice of fully stripping prisoners during inspections. This decision marks a major victory for human rights advocates and prisoners alike.
For years, the Public Defender had been urging the Ministry of Justice to amend the regulations governing penitentiary institutions to eliminate the practice of strip searching inmates. Despite these calls, the issue remained unresolved until now. The Public Defender filed a constitutional lawsuit with the Constitutional Court in February 2025, challenging the provisions that allowed for full strip searches.
**What Changed?**
On June 10, 2025, the Minister of Justice issued orders to make changes to the regulations challenged by the Public Defender. As a result, the Ministry of Justice informed the Constitutional Court that the issues raised by the claimant had been fully resolved with the new amendments.
The significance of this decision cannot be overstated. The practice of strip searching prisoners has long been a contentious issue in Georgia’s penitentiary system. Advocates for human rights and prisoners’ rights have argued that such searches are invasive, humiliating, and often unnecessary. The Ministry of Justice’s decision to abolish the practice is a major step towards addressing these concerns.
**What Next?**
With the Ministry of Justice having accepted the Public Defender’s request, the constitutional proceedings will now be terminated. This development marks a significant victory for the Public Defender and human rights advocates in Georgia. As the country continues to reform its penitentiary system, this decision sets an important precedent for prioritizing prisoners’ rights.
**Commentary**
The Ministry of Justice’s decision to abolish the practice of strip searching prisoners is a welcome move towards improving conditions within Georgia’s penitentiary institutions. By responding to the Public Defender’s concerns and amending the regulations governing inspections, the Ministry has demonstrated its commitment to upholding human rights.
As the country continues to reform its penitentiary system, this decision serves as an important reminder of the importance of prioritizing prisoners’ rights. The Ministry of Justice’s willingness to listen to the concerns of the Public Defender and make necessary changes is a testament to Georgia’s ongoing efforts to improve its human rights record.
**Analysis**
The decision to abolish the practice of strip searching prisoners marks a significant shift in Georgia’s approach towards penitentiary reform. By prioritizing prisoners’ rights, the Ministry of Justice has taken an important step towards creating a more humane and rehabilitation-focused system.
This development is also significant in the context of Georgia’s broader efforts to modernize its penitentiary institutions. As the country continues to implement reforms aimed at improving conditions within prisons, this decision serves as a reminder that human rights must be at the forefront of these efforts.
In conclusion, the Ministry of Justice’s decision to abolish the practice of strip searching prisoners is a major victory for human rights advocates and prisoners alike. By prioritizing prisoners’ rights and responding to concerns about the penitentiary system, Georgia has taken an important step towards creating a more just and humane society.
Read More @ www.interpressnews.ge
