Rights chief calls on Georgian authorities to protect basic freedoms
December 2, 2024, 12:00 pm
Geneva – UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has called on the Georgian authorities to protect basic freedoms, including the rights to freedom of expression, assembly and association, following a recent wave of arrests and detentions of activists and journalists.
In a statement issued on Friday, Türk said he was “deeply concerned” by the reports of arbitrary arrests and detentions, and the use of excessive force by law enforcement officials. He also expressed concern about the reported use of surveillance and intimidation against activists and journalists.
“These actions are not only a violation of fundamental human rights, but also undermine the rule of law and democratic principles,” Türk said. “I urge the Georgian authorities to respect and protect the rights of all individuals, regardless of their political views or affiliations.”
The High Commissioner also called on the authorities to ensure that those responsible for the alleged violations are held accountable.
“The Georgian authorities have a responsibility to uphold human rights and the rule of law,” Türk said. “I urge them to take immediate steps to address these concerns and to ensure that all individuals can enjoy their fundamental freedoms without fear of reprisal.”
The statement comes after a series of arrests and detentions of activists and journalists in Georgia. In recent weeks, several individuals have been detained for allegedly participating in unauthorized protests, and at least one journalist has been charged with treason.
The Georgian authorities have defended their actions, saying that they are necessary to maintain public order and security. However, critics have accused the government of using the protests as a pretext to crack down on dissent.
The European Union and the United States have also expressed concern about the human rights situation in Georgia. In a statement issued on Thursday, the EU called on the Georgian authorities to “fully respect freedom of expression, assembly and association.”
The US State Department has also urged the Georgian government to respect human rights and to ensure that those responsible for the alleged violations are held accountable.
Rights chief calls on Georgian authorities to protect basic freedoms
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