A significant event leading up to 2024 parliamentary elections in Georgia was the ruling party’s adoption of the “Russian law,” which they claim ensures transparency in foreign funding. However, this law, coupled with numerous incidents of violence against journalists and efforts to obstruct journalistic activities in recent years, has severely deteriorated the media environment, as reflected in international assessments.
MAC, along with its partners, was actively monitoring the pre-election landscape, focusing particularly on the state of critical and independent media, which often face restrictions and pressure. Coalition members provided analysis on both the overall pre-election situation and the actions of the National Communications Commission, as well as the various forms of government influence on the media—factors that directly impacted citizens’ ability to make informed choices.
According to MAC’s assessment, Georgian media faced unprecedented challenges ahead of the elections. Following the adoption of the “Russian law,” Georgian Dream has intensified pressure on independent media, leveraging its influence over the National Communications Commission and the judicial system. These actions violated media rights and undermine the fundamental democratic principles essential for free and fair elections.
MAC also noted that the recent actions of the National Communications Commission indicated a troubling trend of state capture of institutions. Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP) continued to be a major issue.
The Media Ombudsman recorded 30 cases of media rights violations during coverage of Georgia’s parliamentary elections on October 25 and 26, 2024. Criminal actions infringed on the rights of at least 50 journalists and camera operators. In addition to violations against media professionals, the public’s right to receive and share information about developments at polling stations was also compromised.
Photo collage: Civil.ge
