The News in Brief
Thursday, October 5, 2023
Prepared by Messenger Staff
Public Defender Criticizes Amendments to the Law on Assembly and Manifestations
According to the Public Defender's assessment, the amendments to the Law on Assembly and Manifestations constitute an interference with the freedom of expression and assembly, as they restrict the expression of opinions through the use of temporary constructions, such as tents.
"Such a significant restriction of freedom of expression in a democratic society can only be justified by the need to protect a substantial and compelling interest, which is not addressed by the presented draft law.
The amendments will prohibit assembly and demonstration participants from setting up temporary constructions based on five grounds, which, according to the Public Defender, are insufficient to justify the restrictions proposed by the project.
According to the public defender, the existing norms already allow for an appropriate response in the event of such threats, and there is no need to impose additional prohibitions in this regard. Furthermore, the draft law allows for a broad interpretation," The Ombudsman's statement reads.
Georgia's Foreign Minister Meets with Council of Europe's Secretary General, Marija Pejcinovic Buric
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia, Ilia Darchiashvili, held a meeting with the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Marija Pejcinovic Buric.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during the meeting, they highlighted the critical role and significance of the organization concerning the occupied territories of Georgia, the peaceful settlement of the conflict, and trust-building projects.
"There was a specific emphasis on the necessity of allowing international mechanisms in the occupied regions. The meeting also highlighted the Council of Europe's contribution to implementing democratic reforms in Georgia, with particular attention to the 2024-2027 action plan and its associated projects.
The meeting also addressed Georgia's progress in implementing the 12 recommendations of the European Commission and the results achieved. The minister expressed hope that Georgia's efforts would be appropriately evaluated, and the country would attain candidate status by year-end. In conclusion, the parties reiterated their readiness to continue their close cooperation," MFA of Georgia's statement reads.
Public Defender Criticizes Amendments to the Law on Assembly and Manifestations
"Such a significant restriction of freedom of expression in a democratic society can only be justified by the need to protect a substantial and compelling interest, which is not addressed by the presented draft law.
The amendments will prohibit assembly and demonstration participants from setting up temporary constructions based on five grounds, which, according to the Public Defender, are insufficient to justify the restrictions proposed by the project.
According to the public defender, the existing norms already allow for an appropriate response in the event of such threats, and there is no need to impose additional prohibitions in this regard. Furthermore, the draft law allows for a broad interpretation," The Ombudsman's statement reads.
Georgia's Foreign Minister Meets with Council of Europe's Secretary General, Marija Pejcinovic Buric
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during the meeting, they highlighted the critical role and significance of the organization concerning the occupied territories of Georgia, the peaceful settlement of the conflict, and trust-building projects.
"There was a specific emphasis on the necessity of allowing international mechanisms in the occupied regions. The meeting also highlighted the Council of Europe's contribution to implementing democratic reforms in Georgia, with particular attention to the 2024-2027 action plan and its associated projects.
The meeting also addressed Georgia's progress in implementing the 12 recommendations of the European Commission and the results achieved. The minister expressed hope that Georgia's efforts would be appropriately evaluated, and the country would attain candidate status by year-end. In conclusion, the parties reiterated their readiness to continue their close cooperation," MFA of Georgia's statement reads.