Georgian political scientist Levan Nikoleishvili on Thursday criticized Dunja Mijatovic, the Human Rights Commissioner of the Council of Europe, for her recent critical comments over the ruling Georgian Dream party proposed amendments targeting alleged LGBT propaganda.
Nikoleishvili expressed concerns about Mijatovic's approach, likening it to the practices of Soviet-era commissioners.
Nikoleishvili emphasized the importance of “thoroughness and factual accuracy” in the role of a human rights commissioner, cautioning against drawing conclusions “without proper verification of facts”. He stressed the necessity for Mijatovic to be well-informed on issues and to base her assessments on concrete evidence before making judgments.
Regarding Mijatovic's remarks on political manipulations and alleged harassment of LGBT individuals and human rights defenders, Nikoleishvili called for specific evidence to support these claims. He also urged Mijatovic to consider the broader context, including initiatives such as the Constitutional Law of Georgia on Family Values and Protection of Minors proposed by the ruling party. Nikoleishvili further highlighted Georgia's history of tolerance and respect towards all individuals, suggesting that Mijatovic should take this into account when addressing human rights issues in the country.The proposed constitutional amendments, unveiled by the leader of the parliamentary majority on March 25, include provisions that would restrict the rights of LGBT individuals. These measures encompass prohibitions on same-sex couples adopting minors, bans on medical interventions related to gender reassignment, and restrictions on assemblies and the dissemination of materials advocating for LGBT rights or gender-affirming medical procedures.
Mijatovic labeled the initiative, which came ahead of the October general elections, as "pre-election manipulation fueled by LGBTI-phobia," emphasizing such actions contradicted the principles of a democratic society founded on the rule of law and respect for human rights.
