The "Strengthening Rule of Law and Criminal Defense Services in Georgia" program, managed by the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), seeks to enhance the capacity of defense attorneys and the institutions supporting them in Georgia. The program targets the Georgia Bar Association (GBA) and Legal Aid Services (LAS), aiming to improve criminal defense skills, ensure quality legal representation, and advocate for the independence and protection of defense attorneys. The initiative addresses critical gaps in the Georgian legal system, including the limited resources for training, outdated case management tools, and a lack of specialized knowledge in areas such as jury trials, domestic violence, juvenile justice, and cybercrime.

The project will focus on five primary goals: enhancing case management capabilities for LAS and GBA, improving legal protections and advocacy for defense attorneys, developing continuing legal education (CLE) programs for lawyers, increasing public awareness of the jury trial system, and promoting professionalism and ethical standards in the courtroom. Activities under this program include conducting needs assessments, procuring software and hardware for case management, developing training materials, organizing workshops and U.S. study visits, implementing public awareness campaigns, and supporting infrastructure improvements like mock courtrooms for training.

The program offers funding between $1,500,000 and $2,000,000 for an initial 24-month performance period, with the possibility of extensions based on project success and funding availability. Eligible applicants include U.S. and foreign non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and educational institutions with experience in capacity-building programs, particularly in post-Soviet contexts. Applicants must demonstrate a strong capacity for project implementation, including in-country presence, experienced staff, and the ability to deliver training in English and Georgian. Consortia are allowed, provided one organization serves as the lead applicant.

Applications must include a detailed project proposal, performance monitoring plan, risk analysis, budget, and supporting documentation such as organizational audits and pre-award risk surveys. Key submission forms, such as the SF-424 series, are required, and all documents must adhere to specific formatting and submission guidelines. Registration in SAM.gov and grants.gov is mandatory, with a unique entity identifier (UEI) and NCAGE code (for non-U.S. entities) required for eligibility. The application deadline is December 13, 2024, with questions due by November 15, 2024.

Evaluation criteria focus on the clarity and feasibility of the project design, alignment with INL objectives, cost-effectiveness, and organizational capacity. Proposals are assessed for their potential impact, gender and equity considerations, and strategies for risk mitigation. Reporting requirements include financial and programmatic updates, with adherence to INL's monitoring and evaluation standards.

This initiative aligns with U.S. foreign policy goals to strengthen democratic institutions, uphold human rights, and enhance the rule of law. It is designed to support a more balanced and effective legal defense system in Georgia while fostering sustainable improvements in professional standards and public trust in the justice system.