Media Freedom Coalition Co-Chairs’ Statement on the Safety of Journalists and Media Workers in Georgia

The Co-Chairs of the Media Freedom Coalition are deeply concerned by the use of excessive force, violence and detentions against journalists and media workers by the Georgian authorities since the beginning of the pro-European protests.

Since November 28, the “Georgian Charter of Journalistic Ethics” has documented more than 70* cases of interference and violence against journalists and media workers, including leading women journalists.

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 brought to account.

We call on the Georgian authorities to put an end to the excessive use of force against journalists covering the protests, and to fully respect their commitments to media freedom and the safety of journalists, as well as the right of peaceful assembly.