US Ambassador Degnan condemns violence against media in Georgia

US Ambassador to Georgia Kelly Degnan discussed an “alarming degradation in the media environment and a troubling increase in harassment, persecution, and physical attacks on members of the press,” with the signatories of the Georgian Charter of Journalistic Ethics and Media Advocacy Coalition on Tuesday, the embassy said. 

Degnan stated that “democracies must have a free and independent media,” and that a “responsible, ethical media is vital in holding those in authority accountable for their actions.”

“The United States categorically condemns violence and intimidation against journalists.Those who would threaten or attack journalists must be held accountable,” said the Ambassador. 

Degnan suggested that the “shocking violence” on July 5th and 6th of the last year, when far-right activists attacked journalists during Tbilisi Pride events, “reminds us of the importance of holding the organizers of violence responsible.  Impunity gives the impression that violence is ok and violence is never ok.” 

“It is the responsibility of those in power to ensure a free and open media environment. The Georgian government must take proactive steps to protect the safety and security of journalists.”

“There can be no impunity for those who would threaten Georgia’s democracy by attacking journalists – regardless of political viewpoints,” Degnan stated.

She reiterated that a “free and independent press is a hallmark of a truly democratic society.”