In the past year, 45 cases of violence, harassment and attempts to intimidate media representatives were recorded in Georgia. This was reported by the human rights organization Transparency International – Georgia.

Currently, 13 criminal cases are being investigated in the country for illegally obstructing a journalist in his professional activities. Most often we are talking about attacks on media representatives, threats and intimidation, violence against journalists during protests, their arrests and fines.

“As Georgia strives for European integration and ahead of important parliamentary elections in 2024, it is critical that the ruling party ensures a fear-free and safe media environment. One of the prerequisites for this is the timely investigation of crimes committed against journalists and an end to impunity for criminals,” the human rights activists said in a statement.