63rd Session of the Human Rights Council. Joint statement on the human rights situation in Georgia. Item 2 General debate
Joint statement on the human rights situation in Georgia. Item 2 General debate
Mr President,
I deliver this statement on behalf of a group of 35 countries.
We would like to draw the Council’s attention to further deteriorating human rights situation in Georgia, particularly in light of legislation adopted in recent years that imposes restrictions on freedoms of expression, assembly and association and does not align with international human rights law.
Since November 2024 peaceful protesters, journalists, media workers, civil society, and political opponents have been facing threats, assaults, harassment, fines, and the freezing of their bank accounts.
We note with concern that many protesters and prominent opposition figures have been convicted and sentenced, including several in recent months. All those arbitrarily detained, must be immediately released.
We regret that despite repeated appeals from the international community, impartial investigations into allegations of excessive use of force and ill-treatment against demonstrators and detainees have not been fully carried out.
Therefore, we call on the Georgian authorities to repeal concerning legislation, conduct impartial investigation into all alleged human rights violations, ensure accountability for those responsible and engage in meaningful dialogue with civil society and the international community.
Thank you.
