Georgia – Sexual Conduct Law
Criminal provisions, penalties, and historical context
📜 Penalties at a Glance – Georgia
| Offence | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| Rape (Art.137) | 6 years | 20 years or life |
| Sexual Coercion (Art.139) | Fine | 4 years |
| Sex with Minor (14–16) | 3 years | 9 years |
| Sex with Child (<14) | 10 years | 20 years or life |
| Pimping / Brothel | 3 years | 10 years |
| Public Indecency | Fine | 1 year |
Overview
Georgia’s sexual conduct laws are set out in the Criminal Code of Georgia (1999, as amended). They cover rape, sexual coercion, offences against minors, harassment, and prostitution-related crimes. While the framework aligns with European standards, enforcement in rural areas can reflect conservative traditions.
Age of Consent
The general age of consent is 16 years (Art. 140).
- Under 16: punishable up to 9 years.
- Under 14: aggravated abuse; up to 20 years or life.
- 16–18: prosecutable if linked to abuse of trust or dependence.
Key Provisions
- Rape: 6–20 years or life (aggravated).
- Sexual Coercion: Fines to 4 years.
- Minors: 3 years to life depending on age/circumstances.
- Prostitution: Selling = fine; pimping = up to 10 years.
- Homosexual Acts: Legal since 2000; equal age applies.
Historical Context
Soviet-era laws criminalised homosexual acts (up to 5 years). Reforms post-2000 decriminalised them and introduced consent-based definitions.
Regional Comparison
| Country | Age of Consent | Rape Penalty | Prostitution | Same-Sex Acts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | 16 | Up to life | Fine / prison | Legal since 2000 |
| Armenia | 16 | Up to 15 years | Fine / prison | Legal since 2003 |
| Azerbaijan | 16 | Up to 20 years | Fine / prison | Legal since 2000 |
| Turkey | 18 | Up to life | Licensed brothels allowed | Legal since 1858 |
Laws can change; always verify before travel.
Insider Commentary
“In Tbilisi, consent laws are enforced, but stigma can silence victims in rural regions.” — NGO adviser
“The code is progressive on paper; cultural conservatism still shapes application.” — Criminology lecturer, TSU
References
Criminal Code of Georgia (1999, as amended to 2024).
Council of Europe. (2022). GREVIO Report: Georgia.
UN Women Georgia. (2023). Sexual violence laws.
Human Rights Watch. (2021). Women’s and LGBTQ+ Rights in Georgia.