Press Freedom in Georgia Threatened by Polarization and Political Pressure

October 03, 2024 – Georgia – 

A recent press freedom mission to Georgia by international media watchdogs, including the Council of Europe’s Safety of Journalists Platform and the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR), has issued a stark warning: Georgia’s press environment is deteriorating rapidly amid growing political polarization and state hostility. Their report, “Press Freedom and the Safety of Journalists in Peril,” reveals that journalists in the country are facing systemic harassment, legal intimidation, and a climate of fear ahead of the 2024 parliamentary elections.

The findings highlight a troubling pattern of verbal and physical attacks on journalists, with at least 34% of documented incidents linked to government officials, police, or state security services. Media workers reported frequent smear campaigns, online threats, and public denigration by political leaders, all contributing to a hostile atmosphere that undermines journalistic independence. Many now self-censor to avoid retaliation.

Polarization has deeply fractured Georgia’s media landscape. Outlets are increasingly aligned along political lines, weakening trust and distorting public discourse. The mission warned that divisive rhetoric from public figures, including labeling journalists as “foreign agents” or “enemies,” is fueling violence and damaging democratic debate.

Legal threats have also intensified. The controversial “Transparency of Foreign Influence” law, which forces NGOs and media receiving foreign funding to register as foreign agents, poses a serious risk to independent journalism. Coupled with the proposed “Protection of Family Values” law—seen as a tool to suppress media coverage of minority and social rights—the legislative landscape is tightening around free expression.

Journalists described working under immense pressure, with some forced into exile or abandoning their work due to fear of prosecution or assault. The report calls on Georgian authorities to halt attacks on the press, repeal repressive legislation, and reaffirm their commitment to media freedom.

Once viewed as a regional leader in democratic reforms, Georgia now risks backsliding into authoritarian tactics. Without urgent action to protect journalists and restore an environment of open public dialogue, the country’s democratic credibility—and the safety of its media workers—hangs in the balance.

Reference – 

https://rm.coe.int/press-freedom-and-the-safety-of-journalists-in-peril-rising-polarisati/1680b21d2e

Georgia: Press Freedom and the Safety of Journalists in Peril, Rising Polarization and a Climate of Fear – Findings of the Press Freedom Mission to Georgia – ipi.media