On October 8, 2026, the U.S. Department of State published its 26th annual Trafficking in Persons Report. According to the report, Georgia continues to rank among the world’s top performers in combating human trafficking, retaining its place in the highest category, Tier 1, for the 11th consecutive year. Of the 184 countries assessed worldwide, only 33 received the highest rating this year.

Georgia is the only country in its region and among EU candidate countries to receive the highest rating from the U.S. Department of State. Notably, 13 EU member states failed to qualify for Tier 1.

According to the U.S. Department of State’s report, Georgia has continued to demonstrate significant and sustained efforts to combat human trafficking, earning the country the highest rating.

The report highlights Georgia’s effective measures to proactively detect and investigate human trafficking offenses, strengthen mechanisms for the protection and assistance of victims and survivors, and ensure compensation for harm resulting from these crimes.

Georgia attaches considerable importance to combating human trafficking, an area that also constitutes an important part of the country’s EU integration process. These efforts contribute to establishing a safe and reliable environment in Georgia and the wider region for combating transnational organized crime.

Georgia’s leading position in the U.S. Department of State’s report and the progress achieved during the reporting period reflect the effective work of the Interagency Coordination Council for the Implementation of Measures Against Human Trafficking.

The Council is chaired by the Minister of Justice of Georgia and comprises representatives of all relevant government agencies, the Office of the Public Defender, and partner organizations.

Minister of Justice Paata Salia discussed close cooperation between Georgia and Turkey in the field of justice during a meeting with his Turkish counterpart, Akın Gürlek. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the International Justice Summit, currently being held in Istanbul.

Paata Salia briefed his Turkish counterpart on the reforms implemented by the Ministry of Justice and the Special Penitentiary Service. He noted that international cooperation with partner countries in civil and criminal matters remains one of Georgia’s priorities.

The meeting also highlighted the public and private services provided to citizens across Georgia through the country’s network of 127 Public Service Halls. The importance of technological progress was also emphasized, along with the development of artificial intelligence grounded in the principles of human rights, ethics, and the rule of law throughout the digital transformation process.

First Deputy Minister of Justice Beka Dzamasvhili and Ambassador of Georgia to the Republic of Turkey Archil Kalandia also attended the meeting.

The International Justice Summit is being held in Istanbul on October 8–9.

Georgian Minister of Justice Paata Salia participated in the opening ceremony of the International Justice Summit, where he delivered welcoming remarks on the importance of the rule of law amid rapid technological progress and digital transformation.

The Minister highlighted measures aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of legal systems and institutions in a rapidly changing environment. He stressed that, in these circumstances, not only dialogue among legal professionals but also close cooperation with international partners and the exchange of best practices are of particular importance.

“Artificial intelligence and digital technologies, transnational cybercrime, migration, and global economic integration are giving rise to new challenges, new forms of responsibility, and a growing need for international cooperation,” the Minister of Justice of Georgia said. He emphasized that technological progress must be firmly grounded in the rule of law and respect for human rights.

Paata Salia briefed the Summit participants on the reforms implemented by the Ministry of Justice of Georgia, with particular emphasis on the modernization of state institutions and efforts to ensure greater accessibility of public services through the use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence.

The International Justice Summit is being held in Istanbul and brings together justice ministers, judges, lawyers, and representatives of international organizations, expert communities, and academic circles from various countries.

As part of his visit to Turkey, Paata Salia will hold meetings with the Ministers of Justice of Turkey, Albania, and North Macedonia. First Deputy Minister of Justice Beka Dzamasvhili and Ambassador of Georgia to the Republic of Turkey Archil Kalandia will also participate in the events.

Minister of Justice of Georgia Paata Salia met with 189 interns selected to join the Justice Ministry system under the state-paid internship program initiated by the Prime Minister.

The Minister congratulated the young students on successfully completing the selection process and noted that the internship represents an important first step into a professional environment and an opportunity to gain practical experience. He encouraged the interns to make the most of the program, take initiative, ask questions, share their views, and actively engage in the work of their respective institutions.

Paata Salia stressed that the Ministry of Justice views the internship not only as an opportunity for young people to acquire professional knowledge and practical skills, but also as an important mechanism for attracting young, qualified professionals to the system. The Ministry aims to ensure that, for successful interns, the program can lead to further professional development and employment opportunities.

In 2026, a total of 293 internship vacancies were announced across the Ministry of Justice and 12 legal entities under public law within its system, attracting 6,639 applications. Following the selection process, 189 interns were selected.

In 2025, 109 of the 156 interns admitted under the program had their internships extended, with some subsequently securing employment.

The internship lasts three months, with the possibility of extension. The program is paid, and the internship period counts toward the interns’ work experience and length of service.