Over the past 10 days, security forces have harmed over 70 journalists and cameramen during protests in Tbilisi. This was reported by the Georgian media ombudsman, reports Echo of the Caucasus.
The widely distributed written statement of the human rights institute also emphasizes that the Special Investigation Service has not yet identified a single violator.
«On December 10, when the world celebrates International Human Rights Day, we would like to show special respect to the Georgian media and remind everyone of the special importance of critical journalism, both for the participants of the rally and for journalists and cameramen. The role of critical media, which the “Georgian Dream” is trying to silence by using force through law enforcement officers and “titushki”», — the message says.
The Media Ombudsman notes that in recent years, media freedom in Georgia has faced numerous problems, attempts to restrict media activities, violence against journalists and impunity for violators.
The human rights organization calls on the authorities to allow journalists to «freely and unhinderedly cover current events and provide information to the population of Georgia».
«We call on all persons working in the public service to protect human rights and freedoms, including respect for the media. The state is obliged to punish those who attack the media and ensure a safe media environment», — the statement says.