German Embassy Condemns Legal Proceedings Against Protesters, Raises Alarm Over Amaghlobeli's Health
By Liza Mchedlidze
Thursday, February 13, 2025
The German Embassy in Georgia has criticized the legal treatment of protesters, calling attention to what it sees as intimidation tactics and an uneven legal process. In a statement issued on February 12, the Embassy highlighted concerns over the legal handling of individuals in pre-trial detention, noting that provisions allowing for release should be properly considered in court practice. The Embassy expressed concern that "people exercising their fundamental rights are being intentionally intimidated."
The statement also underscored the need for fair and equal legal treatment, pointing out that the same standards should apply to both demonstrators and law enforcement officers when criminal offenses are involved. "The same standards should apply to both demonstrators and law enforcement officials in cases of potential criminal offenses," the Embassy emphasized.
The German Embassy further noted that no substantial investigation has been carried out into the violations allegedly committed by state structures. It reiterated its ongoing monitoring of the trials of detainees, alongside European and American partners, while stressing the importance of upholding the principles of the rule of law, including equality before the law and the protection of freedoms.
A major concern in the statement was the deteriorating health of Mzia Amaghlobeli, an imprisoned journalist and director of Batumelebi/Netgazeti, who has been on hunger strike for 32 days in protest. Despite her declining condition, Amaghlobeli remains in detention. The Embassy expressed particular worry over her situation.
In light of Georgia's declining democratic practices, Germany suspended development cooperation with the country in December 2024. The German Foreign Ministry also imposed travel bans on nine individuals involved in violence against peaceful demonstrators. "The right to peaceful protest is a universal human right, and it is our responsibility to protect it," the Ministry stated.
