The research, Perceptions of Civil Servants on Human Rights and Gender Equality, analyses their attitudes towards workplace equality practices within the civil service. It also examines perceptions of fundamental values of human rights, equality, and inclusion, and reveals the gaps in understanding of human rights and their respect, protection, and fulfilment.

In total, 103 public institutions participated in the study. The research combines quantitative data from 1,162 interviews and opinion polls, and qualitative insights from 20 in-depth interviews with civil servants across Georgia.

The research was conducted by the Applied Research Company (ARC) and supported by UNDP in partnership with EU, Norway, Sweden, and UK Aid from the UK Government.
 

Highlights: 
 

• Respondents identify the rights to equality (40%), living in a healthy environment (32%), the right to life (31%), inviolability of personal and family life (25%), and inviolability of honour and dignity (25%) as the most violated in Georgia.
• LGBTQ+ communities (45%), people in hazardous occupations (44%), and single mothers (32%) are perceived as the most vulnerable groups.
• Nearly 58% of male civil servants and 44% of female civil servants believe that gender equality in Georgia has been achieved.
• 30% of male civil servants and 16% of female civil servants perceive men as better political leaders than women.
• Two-thirds of female civil servants and 43% of male civil servants believe that women face more barriers to career advancement compared to men.
• Over 36% of male civil servants and 83% of female civil servants view women’s increased political representation positively for the country.
• 83% of respondents believe that involving people with disabilities in public life helps raise awareness and challenge stereotypes.
• 41% of respondents agree that discrimination against persons with disabilities is a prevalent issue in Georgia.
• 44% of respondents believe that ethnic minorities do not face employment problems in public service, while 24% disagree.
• A significant percentage (33%) of respondents acknowledge discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community, with varying opinions on the adequacy of the state's response.
• Half of female civil servants and 36% of male civil servants support the notion that abortion is a woman's right.
• 56% of respondents advocate for comprehensive sexuality education as part of the school curriculum, with strong support (87%) among respondents living in Tbilisi.
• The majority of respondents rely on state institutions (78%), international organizations (73%), and the Public Defender (71%) for information on human rights, with less trust placed in social media (42%), politicians (39%), and television (38%).