Ombudsman: Despite the regulations for replacing hazardous buildings, many families are forced to live in dangerous environments; Addressing this issue requires timely and effective measures, which current legislative guarantees fail to provide

The Public Defender of Georgia responds to the tragedy that occurred on Tevdore Mgvdeli Street in Tbilisi.

The Public Defender expresses condolences for the victims and offers sympathy to the families and relatives of the deceased.

According to the office, citizens living in various categories of hazardous buildings have been approaching the Public Defender’s office for years regarding their right to live in a safe environment.

“Despite the existence of regulations for the replacement of hazardous multi-apartment residential buildings within the territory of Tbilisi Municipality, many families have been forced to live in dangerous conditions for years. It should be emphasized that such hazardous buildings pose risks not only to residents but also to citizens who may move or work nearby. Cases studied over the years clearly show that addressing this systemic problem requires timely and effective measures, which current legislative guarantees and programmatic capacities fail to ensure,” the office states.

The Public Defender’s office also noted that it will investigate issues related to the right to live in a safe environment for residents of hazardous buildings and other citizens.

“The Public Defender’s office has initiated an inquiry into the incident on Tevdore Mgvdeli Street and will examine issues concerning the right of residents of hazardous buildings and other citizens to live in a safe environment, as well as the measures taken or to be taken by responsible authorities,” the statement reads.