Tbilisi: The prominent non-governmental organization of Georgia “Media Advocacy Group”came in support of Journalists. He said it is responsibility of all to support those who are fighting against the excessive violence of Georgian authorities.
The information was also shared information about the statement of officials of NGO on the different social media handles. As per the official Facebook page of the NGO, “In this difficult time for press freedom and democracy in Georgia, we express our full support for the courageous Georgian journalists who continue their most important work of updating and informing the public, even in an extremely hostile and dangerous environment.”
It further stated that “Their work is vital not only for informing the Georgian population, but also for the world, so that citizens have access to reliable information about the events currently unfolding in Georgia.”
It is worth to note that due to ongoing protests in Georgia, many journalists are being severely beaten, verbally abused, threatened and detained. In addition, their equipment is being confiscated and destroyed and their work is being hindered. At the same time, the government continues to discredit independent and critical media.
It is also to be notated that as per the local media freedom organizations, at least 90 journalists have been physically, verbally abused or prevented from working since November 28. Most of the victims are independent and critical media outlets based in Tbilisi.
These unprecedented attacks on the media come against the backdrop of a rapid deterioration in press freedom and a decline in democracy. In recent months, the media environment has become increasingly hostile and dangerous, as legal and institutional methods are used to suppress critical voices.
The official in their statement also underlined that, We are inspired by the courage and resilience of Georgia’s free media. Your work is essential, and your courage is an inspiration to us.
Once again, we express our full solidarity with you. The statement is signed by 80 journalists from international publications. The original version of statement was also shared by officials as well.
