If society fails to protect the media, it ultimately fails to protect itself.” This powerful message became the driving force behind a dynamic campaign launched by the Free Journalists Center in partnership with Imereti’s top media outlets.
The campaign united “Kutaisipost,” “Chemi Kharagauli,” “Mega TV,” “Imervisia,” “Info Imereti,” and “Old City Radio” in a shared mission to champion media freedom. They rallied citizens across twelve municipalities in Imereti, bringing together everyone from students and pensioners to activists and everyday folks.
Kicking off with lively street actions, the Free Journalists Center team hit the ground running, engaging with communities at bus stops, markets, and bustling public spaces. A standout moment was the “Microphone Action” in Kutaisi, where people took the mic to share their thoughts on media and freedom of expression in an open and inviting atmosphere.
At the literature club, young participants were inspired by the stories of women who stood up for free speech, including figures like Rosa Parks, Afghan rapper Sonita Alizadeh, Kato Mikeladze, and Anna Politkovskaya—each a testament to the power of voice and resistance.
The “Paint a Freedom” competition quickly became a hit. Initially aimed at Imereti schools, it grew beyond borders, attracting seventy participants from various cities across Georgia.
A captivating photo exhibition on Kutaisi’s historic White Bridge showcased 15 striking images from two talented photographers. These photos captured the harsh realities of freedom of speech violations and the courage of journalists working under challenging conditions, drawing nearly 200 visitors in just one day.
With 24 video podcasts produced and their audio versions airing 900 times on “Old City Radio,” the campaign generated over 450 diverse media products spread across multiple platforms.
The campaign’s reach was impressive, with nearly 3,000 people engaging directly and up to a million touched indirectly. In each municipality, 2,000 flyers were distributed, along with 500 stickers featuring powerful messages in support of free media.
As a result, a vibrant network of active citizens emerged across all twelve municipalities, united in their commitment to safeguarding media freedom. Initially hesitant to discuss the topic, people now eagerly engage in conversations about it, recognizing that free media is not just their voice—it’s an essential tool for achieving and maintaining their well-being.
