These two days a year ago marked the toughest period for Georgian journalism as 53 media personnel were injured while carrying out their professional duties as a result of a mass attack by homophobic and violent groups. On July 11, 2021, Lekso Lashkarava, a cameraman for TV Pirveli, was found dead at his residence. The camera operator underwent surgery after sustaining a concussion and fracturing facial bones during attacks on July 5 by hate groups.
The organisers of the July 5 and 6 attacks were not identified for over a year, resulting in no punishment for those that masterminded the attacks. Some of the violent participants in the attack have still not been brought to justice. The syndrome of impunity has further exacerbated the media environment in Georgia, evidenced by threats, harassment, illegal wiretapping and surveillance, pressure, discrimination, discrediting, physical attacks, and selective admission of journalists to press briefings – this is just a brief list of violations.
The Government targets journalists and media representatives for their critical editorial policies. Journalists work in a dangerous environment that threatens their physical and mental well-being, as they are often targets of verbal and/or physical attacks by politicians or violent assailants. Even their family members are at risk.
When investigating cases of abuse of power, human rights violations, corruption, budget mismanagement, or criminal activity by the authorities, journalists encounter restrictions to accessing public information. Nika Gvaramia, director of critical Mtavari Akhi TV, is currently imprisoned in a case that has been described by both local and international organizations as politically motivated.
Safeguarding and facilitating freedom of expression is the responsibility of the Government. This means fostering a favorable climate for journalistic work and limiting interfering in it. The state must defend the autonomy and diversity of the media, as required by national and international laws. We therefore call on the authorities:
- To identify and appropriately penalize the direct perpetrators and organizers of criminal acts during the events of 5-6 July 2021. To swiftly and effectively investigate the numerous attacks against journalists, the instances of illegal interference in their professional activities, and hold the relevant individuals accountable;
- Cease the ongoing politically motivated investigations and trials against critical media outlets. Nika Gvaramia, the director and founder of Mtavari Arkhi, should be released;
- Investigate cases of widespread unlawful wiretapping and surveillance of media workers.
