Today, on 2 March 2022, after the hearing of the case related to the events of 5-6 July, 2021, Formula TV journalist Rati Tsverava was allegedly approached by people connected to violent groups. They verbally abused the journalist and tried to take violent revenge. Archil Chichiboshvili and Khatuna Gagnidze of Rustavi 2 TV were also insulted.
Some of the media representatives have reportedly been questioned [by the relevant authorities], but it is not known whether the attackers have been identified and whether they will be punished according to the law.
Recent events show once again that the lack of adequate punishment for the participants and organisers of the mass attack on 5-6 July 2021 has encouraged violent acts against media workers and human rights defenders in general.
The Media Advocacy Coalition believes that the events that took place in the courtyard on 2 March bear the hallmarks of an alleged crime and calls on the law enforcement authorities to conduct a prompt and effective investigation to identify and bring to justice the alleged perpetrators.
We believe that a timely legal response to acts of violence against journalists is necessary to protect the media and freedom of expression, and to ensure a safe working environment for media professionals.
