Hearing on Georgian media manager’s case continues amid international support, sanctions

The trial of Mzia Amaglobeli, the founder of Batumelebi and Netgazeti media outlets in Georgia, continues at the Batumi City Court, with French Ambassador to Georgia, Sheraz Gasri, attending the proceedings.

Amaglobeli, a prominent media figure, has faced increasing international attention as the case progresses. She was arrested in January for assaulting a police official during protests against halted EU integration and is facing up to seven years in prison.

The German Foreign Ministry on Monday issued a statement on X, demanding Amaglobeli’s immediate release. The Ministry condemned the Georgian Dream-led government’s ongoing efforts to intimidate journalists, protest participants, and opposition figures. “We stand by those who defend freedom,” the Ministry wrote.

In a related move, Lithuania and Estonia imposed sanctions on key figures involved in the case, including judges, prosecutors, and police officers, with visa restrictions in place as of March 3.

Hundreds of journalists, both local and international, as well as human rights organizations and several EU member states, have voiced strong support for Amaglobeli, calling for her release. These international voices are joined by a growing number of Georgian citizens advocating for the protection of press freedom and human rights.