Media Advocacy Coalition reacts to the resolution of 9 June 2022, adopted by the five political groups of the European Parliament, (Greens/EFA, S&D, ECR, EPP and Renew Europe), that focuses on media freedom violations and journalist protection in Georgia.
As our nation anticipates the European Council’s verdict, we urge the ruling party to effectively utilize the remaining time during this crucial moment in Georgian history to enhance Georgia’s prospects of acquiring EU candidate status.
During the next two weeks, the Government must work with all branches and stakeholders, and take tangible measures to improve the media environment, namely to
- Immediately release the Director General of Mtavari Arkhi TV, Nika Gvaramia from prison, employing either the pardon mechanism or other legal means for this purpose.
- The representatives of the ruling party must cease all boycotts and attacks on critical media.
- Furthermore, acceleration of the investigation into cases of illegal interference in journalistic activity is necessary, including a complete examination of the facts surrounding the July 5, 2021 violence and the subsequent holding of the organizers accountable.
- Similar to the European Union’s practice, Georgia should ban the transit of Russian TV channels.
- Public institutions must abide by the legal obligations to provide access to public information.
