Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called for an immediate and effective investigation into alleged police violence against protesters in Georgia, urging accountability for those responsible. In a report released on Tuesday, the organization documented widespread use of force against demonstrators, labeling it as punitive and excessive.
The report, based on interviews with dozens of victims, describes brutal detentions, beatings, torture, and mistreatment of mostly peaceful protesters in Tbilisi. Victims reported serious injuries, including concussions, broken bones, and other physical trauma. According to HRW, law enforcement officers, often wearing black masks and lacking identifying marks, used methods that appeared systematic and targeted.
“Police actions against peaceful demonstrators were widespread and appeared to be punitive,” the report states, adding that “riot police and individuals allegedly linked to the government assaulted opposition media representatives and journalists.”
HRW also criticized the judicial handling of protesters charged with disobedience, calling court reviews superficial and inadequate in addressing allegations of mistreatment. Despite an investigation launched by the Special Investigation Service, no charges have been filed against perpetrators.
Adding to the controversy, Georgian authorities announced awards for Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) employees sanctioned by Western nations for their alleged role in repressing dissent. HRW denounced the decision, stating it demonstrated a disregard for accountability.
“The government should immediately end police violence, respect rights to peaceful assembly and expression, and investigate reports of beatings, torture, and ill-treatment,” HRW said, calling for the release of detained peaceful protesters.
HRW urged Georgia’s international partners to advocate for an independent investigation into the violence and recommended EU sanctions against those implicated in the abuses. The organization also called for greater support for civil society and the media in Georgia.
The United States, the United Kingdom, and EU members Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia have already imposed sanctions on senior Georgian officials linked to the violence. However, the EU has not yet reached consensus on additional personal sanctions.
Protests erupted on November 28 following the Georgian Dream government’s decision to delay EU membership negotiations until 2028. Demonstrators accuse the government of stalling European integration and demand new elections.
The ruling party defends its commitment to joining the EU by 2030 but faces growing criticism domestically and internationally. The protests intensified after the first session of the 11th Parliament, which opposition parties have declared illegitimate.
The ongoing unrest has led to the detention of over 400 protesters, including opposition figures and journalists, heightening tensions between the government and civil society.
