The Media Advocacy Coalition calls on the Special Investigation Service to implement special protective measures for journalist Nato Gogelia and her underage children.
The Coalition once again recalls that TV Pirveli journalist Nato Gogelia has been the victim of an assault and interference in her professional work so the state should pay due attention to the threat against the journalist and take immediate measures to prevent illegal actions against her.
On 15th March 2023, a member of the pro-Russian party “Alt-Info” assaulted Gogelia in Bakhvi village, causing physical harm and damaging her mobile phone. The same individual also participated in an event near the Parliament in Tbilisi on 14th March, where they removed the European flag from the legislature building. The Special Investigation Service has initiated an inquiry into the obstruction of the journalist’s professional duties, and one suspect has been arrested.
Several threats were made to the journalist by the violent person’s supporters, necessitating an urgent response.
The Media Ombudsman, a coalition member organisation, is protecting Nato Gogelia’s interests. The Special Investigation Service has already presented additional evidence for the protection of the journalist and her underaged children.
Media Advocacy Coalition requests the Special Investigation Service to promptly investigate the journalist and her minor children’s human rights infringement, award them the status of alleged victims, and enforce the special protection regulations prescribed by the Georgian law.
