Media Freedom Coalition condemns violence against journalists in Georgia

The Co-Chairs of the Media Freedom Coalition (MFC), Estonia and Germany, have expressed deep concern over the excessive force, violence, and detentions targeting journalists and media workers by Georgian authorities since the beginning of the pro-European protests.

According to the Georgian Charter of Journalistic Ethics, over 70 cases of interference and violence against journalists and media workers, including prominent women journalists, have been documented since November 28.

“We condemn all intimidation and violence against journalists and media workers, who must be able to inform the public without fear of violence and interference. All cases of violence and intimidation must be thoroughly investigated, and those responsible must be held accountable,” the MFC statement read.

The Coalition urged the Georgian authorities to end the excessive use of force against journalists covering protests, respect their commitments to media freedom and journalist safety, and uphold the right to peaceful assembly.

The statement was endorsed by the MFC co-chairs, Estonia and Germany, with additional support from 25 countries, including: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Czechia, Denmark, Finland, France, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Uruguay.