French Ambassador calls for release of detained Georgian media founder Mzia Amaglobeli

The Ambassador of France to Georgia, Sheraz Gasri, has expressed strong support for Mzia Amaglobeli, founder of Georgian media outlets Netgazeti and Batumelebi, who is currently detained and on hunger strike. In a recent post on X, Gasri called for the release of those arbitrarily detained, emphasizing that Amaglobeli should be protected, not persecuted.

Gasri’s message follows a meeting of EU representatives with the representatives of Batumelebi and Netgazeti, to show solidarity with Amaglobeli.

Mzia Amaglobeli has been held in pre-trial detention since January 12, 2025, after being accused of assaulting a police officer. Human rights organizations and press freedom advocates have labeled the charges as politically motivated, pointing to the journalist’s critical reporting on government policies and alleged abuses.