UK Sanctions Georgian Officials Responsible for Brutal Crackdown on Media and Protestors
On December 19, 2024, the United Kingdom imposed sanctions on several Georgian officials deemed responsible for a brutal crackdown on media and protestors. This action was taken in response to the Georgian government’s ongoing suppression of dissent and human rights violations.
The sanctions were announced by Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, who condemned the Georgian government’s excessive use of force against peaceful protestors and journalists. Cleverly emphasized that the UK stands firmly behind the people of Georgia and will continue to support their demand for democratic freedoms and the right to expression.
The sanctioned individuals include:
- Vakhtang Gomelauri, Minister of Internal Affairs
- Giorgi Gakharia, Former Prime Minister
- Shalva Papuashvili, Chairman of the Parliament of Georgia
- Roman Gotsiridze, Chief Prosecutor
- Mamuka Mdinaradze, Mayor of Tbilisi
These individuals are accused of orchestrating and carrying out a violent crackdown on peaceful protests in Tbilisi, which began in June 2024. The protests were sparked by the arrest of opposition leader Nika Melia and resulted in widespread police brutality and arbitrary detentions.
Additionally, the sanctions target Georgian officials responsible for suppressing media freedoms. In recent months, the Georgian government has shut down critical media outlets, detained journalists, and blocked access to independent news websites.
The UK’s sanctions include travel bans, asset freezes, and a prohibition on dealing with the designated individuals or their associated entities. The UK government has also suspended all bilateral development assistance to Georgia until concrete steps are taken to address human rights concerns.
The international community has widely condemned the Georgian government’s crackdown. The European Union, the United States, and the OSCE have all called on Georgia to respect the rule of law, protect media freedoms, and refrain from using excessive force against peaceful protestors.
Despite international pressure, the Georgian government has shown little willingness to change its course. The authorities have continued to suppress dissent and prosecute opposition figures. The recent imposition of sanctions by the UK is a significant step to hold the Georgian government accountable for its human rights abuses and to support the democratic aspirations of the Georgian people.
The sanctions are part of the UK’s ongoing efforts to promote human rights and democracy around the world. The UK government has been vocal in its criticism of authoritarian regimes and has taken concrete steps to support the victims of human rights violations.
UK sanctions Georgian officials responsible for brutal crackdown on media and protestors
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