Transparency International Reports Surge in Violence Against Georgian Media in 2024
By Liza Mchedlidze
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
Transparency International (TI) has documented a significant increase in violence and obstruction against media outlets critical of Georgia's ruling Georgian Dream party in 2024. Nearly 200 cases of verbal and physical abuse, intimidation, and interference with journalistic activities were recorded this year, with 80% occurring in the past two months alone. This marks a nearly fivefold increase compared to 2023.
According to TI, the surge in violence coincides with the pro-European protests that began on November 28. Non-governmental organizations have reported over 90 violations of journalists' rights during these demonstrations, including targeted attacks, severe injuries, unlawful detentions, equipment damage, and threats. Victims include:
- Maka Chikhladze and Giorgi Shetsiruli of TV Pirveli, who were brutally assaulted live on air by suspected government-sponsored provocateurs ("titushki").
- Guram Rogava of Formula TV, who suffered a serious head injury inflicted by a riot officer and remains in rehabilitation.
Numerous other journalists were injured by tear gas, water cannons, and direct physical violence during these protests, underscoring the escalating hostility toward the media.
The attacks on media representatives extend beyond the protests. TI categorized the violations into five key areas:
1. Physical Attacks
- In January, police assaulted four journalists from the online outlet Broadcaster during a Tbilisi protest.
- In March, journalists from TV 25 and TOK TV were attacked in Batumi.
- In November, police assaulted Publika journalist Mindia Gabadze during protests against election fraud.
2. Unlawful Detentions and Fines
- Cameraman Sergi Baramidze of Mtavari Arkhi was unlawfully detained and assaulted during protests.
- In December, Mtavari Arkhi journalist Beka Khorishia was fined 2,200 GEL for covering a pro-European protest.
3. Threats and Intimidation
- In February, a flammable substance was thrown into the office of the newspaper Alioni.
- In March, intruders damaged the property of TV Pirveli journalist Nato Gogelia.
- In October, ruling party officials accused critical media outlets of illegal activities, further fueling tensions.
4. Parliamentary Restrictions
- In April, access for online media to parliamentary sessions was restricted during discussions on controversial laws.
- In June, journalists from TV Pirveli and other outlets had their parliamentary accreditations revoked.
5. Judicial and Regulatory Harassment
- The Communications Commission issued contested violation protocols against critical broadcasters, leading to fines.
- In July, simultaneous lawsuits were filed against TV Pirveli by ruling party affiliates, seen as an attempt to intimidate the outlet.
Inadequate State Response
Despite the increasing violence, state institutions have failed to address the crisis adequately. TI reports that from January to November 2024, only 16 criminal investigations into alleged interference with journalists' activities were initiated, with 9 cases still pending. Seven individuals were prosecuted, but no significant progress has been reported, and many perpetrators remain unpunished.
According to TI, this lack of accountability fosters a culture of impunity, suggesting that these attacks are tacitly sanctioned by the authorities. Additionally, foreign journalists have faced entry denials without justification, further highlighting the hostile environment for the press.
