Public Defender: The obligation to present a document on coronavirus vaccination in certain areas of public life is not a discriminatory or rights-violating practice
We can state that the obligation to present a document on coronavirus vaccination in certain areas of public life is not a discriminatory or rights-violating practice, - Public Defender Nino Lomjaria said at a briefing today.
According to her, the regulations that may allow vaccinated people or non-vaccinated persons in case of a negative test result to enter certain public places are not recognized as discriminatory practices.
"The country is in the worst epidemiological situation, due to which dozens of people die every day. In the current situation, accelerating vaccination is essential to save the lives of citizens.
Recently, many citizens or organizations have applied to the Public Defender's Office with questions about whether they violate the rights of a person and whether the obligation to submit a vaccination document in labour relations, services, health, education or other areas is discriminatory. Due to the urgency of the issue, I would like to make a public explanation regarding the above:
The Public Defender has thoroughly studied the latest international experience as well as national human rights law and we can say that in certain areas of public life such as health, social services, education, public service - the obligation to submit a coronavirus vaccination document is not a discriminatory practice.
Since it is the responsibility of the employer to ensure a safe working environment for life and health, the Public Defender believes that certain incentive or restrictive measures for vaccinated and unvaccinated persons will not be discriminatory. Accordingly, employers as well as service providers have the right to request an employee or consumer proof of full vaccination or a systematic PCR test result. These rules should provide for exceptions (for example, a medical certificate stating that vaccination is not appropriate).
Similarly, the regulations that may allow vaccinated people or non-vaccinated persons in case of a negative test result to enter certain public places are not recognized as discriminatory practices”, said Nino Lomjaria.
According to the Public Defender, interference with the rights of individuals is justified and in the light of the current situation, vaccination should be interpreted not only as an individual right but also as a collective responsibility necessary for the protection of public health and the survival of the population.
