Hundreds of protesters in Georgia have faced brutal dispersal tactics, arbitrary detention, and torture and other ill-treatment during a crackdown on anti-government rallies over the past two weeks, Amnesty International revealed on December 13, 2024.
A detailed briefing, based on testimonies from victims of police brutality, human rights defenders, and video evidence, highlights extensive human rights violations, including the unlawful use of force, torture and other ill-treatment, and deliberate targeting of journalists. Amnesty International’s findings point to state-sanctioned repression aimed at silencing dissent.
The violent crackdown escalated after largely peaceful protests began on 29 November and has been repeated almost every day since, with protesters still taking to the streets. More than 460 people have been detained so far, with around 300 reporting severe beatings and other ill-treatment.
“Much of the Georgian police’s brutal response to protests has been visible to the world thanks to the work of journalists risking their safety. However, far more brutal – and less visible – are the abuses that occur out of sight: widespread torture and other ill-treatment of protestors in detention, leaving scores with broken bones, fractures and concussions. Authorities are also targeting protesters with ongoing arrests, taking individuals from the streets and their homes one by one,” said Deprose Muchena, Senior Director at Amnesty International.
Full version of the report.
”Over 50
journalists have been reported injured, have had their equipment destroyed by the police and
otherwise prevented from carrying out their professional activities, despite clearly identifying
themselves as journalists with jackets, press badges, and equipment.”
Amnesty International report
”A masked man looked at my press badge and punched me in the face. After I fell, he kicked me in the head. Two other men joined in, beating me relentlessly. Nearby police did not intervene or pursue the attackers; they simply returned to their car and closed the door when confronted about their inaction. “
Mindia Gabadze, Publika.ge Amnesty International report
”It was clear they attacked me for being a journalist. Recently this whole thing has become a hunt for journalists. I have covered wars and the revolution but never felt more endangered. “
Davit Tsagareli, Radio Free, Amnesty International report
