The leaders of EU diplomacy, Kaja Kallas and EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, issued a joint statement expressing concern over Georgia’s drift from democratic principles. They urged Tbilisi to reverse recent legal reforms that impact freedoms of speech, assembly, and the media.
Kallas, who also serves as the Vice-President of the European Commission, alongside Kos, criticized the rapid adoption of amendments to the Code of Administrative Offenses, the Criminal Code, and the Law on Assemblies and Demonstrations in Georgia.
They argued that these legal changes pose significant risks to Georgian society by “seriously undermining” the rights to freedom of speech, assembly, and media freedom.
“These developments are a major setback for Georgia’s democratic journey. We urge the authorities to halt these measures, reduce tensions, and await the assessment from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, as requested by the Ombudsman,” the statement emphasized.
Kallas and Kos pointed out that the Georgian government has resorted to intimidation and violence to suppress dissent, targeting peaceful protesters, journalists, and opposition figures.
They highlighted the case of journalist Mzii Amaglobeli as indicative of the government’s treatment of media professionals and dissenters.
“Mzia, who is currently on a hunger strike, symbolizes the resilience of all those unjustly imprisoned. Those responsible for acts of violence must be held accountable. We call on the Georgian authorities to release all unjustly detained journalists, activists, and political prisoners. It is essential for the government to engage in dialogue with all political entities and civil society representatives,” concluded Kallas and Kos. (02/07/2025)
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