Statement of Media Advocacy Coalition
The repression of media in Georgia has reached alarming levels. The “Georgian Dream” regime systematically suppressing independent journalism through a range of tactics, including legal persecution, physical violence, severe financial penalties, repressive legislative initiatives, and impunity for acts of violence. These actions aim to obliterate free media and stifle freedom of expression.
Recent examples of systematic attacks:
- Mzia Amaglobeli, the founder and director of “Batumelebi” and “Netgazeti,” is currently in pre-trial detention on politically motivated criminal charges. Simultaneously, Judge Salikh Shainidze found her guilty of an administrative offense, imposing a fine of 2,000 GEL. The charges originated from Mzia’s placement of stickers; she was initially detained without evidence of wrongdoing, and later accused of disobeying a police officer’s “lawful demand.” As noted by Nona Kurdovanidze, head of GYLA, the Ministry of Internal Affairs has falsified both the detention and violation reports, and a police witness provided false testimony in court. The Clooney Foundation for Justice’s TrialWatch program has initiated monitoring of Amaglobeli’s trial, underscoring the case’s significance in the defense of freedom of expression.
- Tbilisi City Court Judge Tamar Makharoblidze expelled “Pirveli” TV journalists Mariam Gaprindashvili and Nanuka Kajaia from the courtroom when they inquired about their legal right to take photographs during the proceedings. Despite having formally requested this right, the judge interrupted them, asserting they were not parties to the case and therefore had no right to speak. Following a warning, she expelled them.
- Aleksandre Keshelashvili, a reporter for “Publika,” was arrested and severely beaten by special forces on November 29, 2024, while covering a protest at the legislative body. Judge Nino Enukidze subsequently found him guilty of disobeying police directives. The assailants who attacked Keshelashvili and his colleagues remain unpunished.
- Nano Chakvetadze, a journalist from “Formula,” TV was fined 5,000 GEL for allegedly blocking a road while carrying out her professional duties on Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi. This incident highlights the ongoing punishment of journalists merely for performing their jobs.
- In parallel, Parliament has adopted new versions of censorship and Russian law bills in the second reading, which contradict the constitution and international standards. These packages represent an analog of Russian legislation against media and civil society organizations.
Actions of repressing the media are not new to the “Georgian Dream”. Since the beginning of pro-European protests, over 100 incidents targeting media representatives have been recorded, with no attackers identified or held accountable. The cases outlined above clearly illustrate the “Georgian Dream” regime’s effort to systematically curtail freedom of expression and suppress critical thought.
The Media Advocacy Coalition stands in solidarity with independent media representatives and remains committed to fighting for their rights and freedoms.
