Institutional Experimentation in Total Defense: The Georgian LEPL Model as a Foundation for Future AI-Policy and Digital Integration

1. Context and Problem: The full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 has highlighted the vital role of civilian-military synergy. For frontline states like Georgia, the challenge is shifting from ad-hoc cooperation to the structural integration of civilian volunteers.
2. The Current Experiment (Institutional): This presentation analyzes the innovative experimentation conducted by the Georgian Ministry of Defense: the creation of a Legal Entity of Public Law (LEPL) – “Defence Volunteer” - specifically dedicated to defense volunteering.
3. Future Perspectives (Research Contribution): As a PhD researcher specializing in AI Policy and Digital Transformation in the public sector, I propose to explore how this institutional framework can be optimized through emerging technologies. While the current focus is on legal reforms, my research investigates the next logical step:
• Digital Skills Matching: Using data-driven frameworks to identify and mobilize civilian expertise (cyber, medical, logistics).
• Predictive Resilience: How Generative AI could help synthesize field reports to enhance situational awareness.
4. CIMIC Relevance: The Georgian case demonstrates that 21st-century CIMIC requires an "institutionalized integration." This contribution provides a scalable framework for nations looking to implement Total Defense strategies through both legal reform and future digital transformation.