Human Rights Crisis in Georgia: A 2024 Overview
Human Rights Watch (HRW) highlighted a severe decline in human rights in Georgia throughout 2024, exacerbated by oppressive laws and violent crackdowns on protests. The Georgian government’s actions have driven the country into a crisis reminiscent of authoritarian regimes, according to HRW’s Executive Director Tirana Hassan.
Deterioration Post-Elections
The report notes a dramatic shift during the contentious parliamentary elections on October 26, when public dissent met brutal police responses. Protests erupted nationwide, with authorities deploying tear gas and rubber bullets against demonstrators, leading to numerous injuries and arrests. This harsh treatment towards civilians included targeting journalists and political opponents.
Escalation of Repressive Legislation
HRW condemned the controversial Foreign Agents Law introduced in June, which imposes burdensome requirements on NGOs receiving international funding. Organizations must register as “serving the interests of a foreign power” if they receive substantial foreign funding, allowing the government to extract sensitive personal data.
Targeting Activists and Media
In the lead-up to the Foreign Agents Law’s implementation, a coordinated campaign of intimidation against civic activists commenced. Many activists faced harassment, threats, and violent attacks with impunity, prompting HRW to call for accountability and protection for dissenters.
Law Enforcement’s Excessive Force
Protests against the Foreign Agents Bill triggered police brutality, with officers using tear gas and water cannons against largely peaceful crowds. HRW documented numerous injuries among peaceful protesters and journalists, highlighting egregious violations of rights and due process throughout the country.
Deterioration of LGBTQ+ Rights
The adoption of anti-LGBT amendments in September further suppressed rights, prohibiting positive representation in media and educational contexts. Organizers of Tbilisi Pride opted for safety over visibility, choosing to forgo in-person events out of fear and violence exacerbated by the hostile legislation.
Concerns for Children and Labor Rights
The UN Committee on the Rights of the Child called attention to urgent issues regarding child abuse and neglect, demanding immediate governmental action. Moreover, labor rights remain precarious in Georgia, with minimal wage protections and significant instances of wage theft reported, pushing many workers into an unsafe economic existence.
In 2024, Georgia witnessed a troubling human rights decline with oppressive laws, violent protests, and discrimination against activists and LGBTQ+ individuals. Key incidents include police brutality during protests and the implementation of the Foreign Agents Law. Major concerns also arise around child rights and labor conditions.
Georgia’s human rights landscape in 2024 saw a marked deterioration, characterized by repressive legislation, violent suppression of protests, and significant setbacks for LGBTQ+ individuals and activists. The international community is urged to demand accountability and support the restoration of fundamental freedoms in the region.
Original Source: civil.ge
