In April 2025, a coalition of OSCE participating States, including the UK and Germany, expressed growing concern regarding the troubling human rights situation in Georgia. They urged Georgia to engage in an open dialogue with various political entities and civil society to address these issues and uphold democracy. This statement signified their commitment to safeguarding fundamental rights and the rule of law not just locally, but throughout the OSCE region.
The concerns expressed by the participating states encompass three main areas: stricter laws limiting civic space, an assault on independent media, and insufficient accountability for police violence. The Foreign Agents Registration Act particularly alarms observers, as it places draconian restrictions on civil society organisations receiving foreign funding, with critics claiming it aims to stifle opposition rather than ensure transparency.
Recent electoral reforms in Georgia have caught the attention of international observers, who stress they must bolster public confidence and be crafted through inclusive engagement. Changes to laws governing peaceful assembly have also raised red flags, being seen as encroachments on democratic processes. The call for Georgian authorities to heed international recommendations was presented amidst fears of further erosion of freedoms ahead of local elections.
The report from the Public Defender highlights deteriorating media conditions, with rising threats against journalists partly due to restrictive legislative changes. Numerous incidents of police aggression towards the press, including physical attacks during protests, have been reported. The participating States demanded an end to harassment of journalists and called for the release of those unjustly detained, including Mzia Amaghlobeli.
Furthermore, a lack of accountability for police misconduct continues to be a significant issue. There is a growing demand for thorough investigations into allegations of police brutality and the excessive use of force against peaceful demonstrators. Attendees urged for immediate action to protect citizens exercising their rights and confidence in governmental institutions.
In conclusion, despite Georgia’s promised commitments to dialogue and OSCE principles, actual progress towards democratic solutions appears stagnant. The participating States intend to push for inclusive engagement to resolve existing crises and are resolute in backing Georgia’s sovereignty while encouraging adherence to international human rights standards.
In April 2025, OSCE member states expressed serious concerns over human rights in Georgia, urging the need for inclusive dialogue, reforms in legislative practices limiting civil space, and accountability for police violence. They highlighted attacks against journalists and the detrimental effects of the Foreign Agents Registration Act, calling for immediate actions to protect freedoms and uphold democracy in the country.
The article illustrates the mounting concerns from various OSCE participating States regarding the deteriorating human rights landscape in Georgia. The emphasis is placed on the need for inclusive dialogue, accountability for police conduct, and the protection of media freedoms. The international community is calling for immediate action to rectify these issues while reaffirming their support for Georgia’s aspirations towards a democratic future.
Original Source: www.gov.uk
