Kaladze Defends Hate Speech Department After US Embassy Raises Concerns
By Messenger Staff
Wednesday, August 5, 2026
Georgian Dream Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze said freedom of speech in Georgia is protected but should not be used as a justification for insults, profanity or personal attacks.
Speaking to journalists, Kaladze was responding to concerns raised by the US Embassy in Georgia over the newly established department tasked with combating hate speech.
"Today, freedom of speech and expression is protected in the country. Freedom of speech and expression does not mean swearing and insulting," Kaladze said.
He said offensive language and personal attacks violate the rights of others, arguing that criticism of political views is acceptable as long as it remains within the limits of respectful discussion.
Kaladze also commented on the possibility of improving relations between Georgia and the United States, saying the Georgian government is ready to restart ties with Washington.
"We are optimistic. We are ready to start relations with a new leaf," he said, adding that Tbilisi rejected what he described as the previous US administration's "unfair attitude" based on "lies and deceit."
Kaladze said he believes the current US administration under President Donald Trump has an opportunity to change what he called the previous administration's approach toward Georgia.
The comments came after the US Embassy responded to a question from Radio Liberty about arrests of citizens over alleged online insults against politicians and the creation of the new "Department for Combating Hate Speech."
The embassy said it was concerned about the establishment of the department, adding: "The best response to lies and misinformation is more freedom of speech, not enforced silence."
