July 5 and 6, 2021, when as a result of the mass attack by homophobic and violent groups, 53 representatives of the media were injured while performing their professional duties, were the most difficult days in Georgian journalism. On July 11, Lekso Lashkarava, TV Pirveli cameraman, was found dead at his home. The cameraman was severely beaten by hate groups during the July 5 attacks - he suffered a concussion, had his facial bones broken and underwent surgery.

 

The investigation has not identified the organizers of the July 5 and 6 attacks and, accordingly, has not punished them even a year after the violence. Some of the individuals personally involved in the violence have not been held responsible. The syndrome of impunity has further worsened the media environment in Georgia: threats, harassment, illegal wiretapping and surveillance, pressure, discrimination, discrediting, physical attacks, selective invitation of journalists to briefings - this is a small list of violations.

 

Today, journalists and representatives of the media are being targeted because of critical editorial policies towards the Government. They have to perform their professional duties in an environment dangerous for their life and health; almost every day they become victims of verbal and/or physical attacks by politicians or offenders who feel encouraged. Their family members also live in danger.

 

Journalists are restricted in their access to public information, especially when they investigate cases of abuse of power, human rights violations, corruption, budget mismanagement or criminal activities of the authorities. Nika Gvaramia, director of the critical TV channel, Mtavari Akhi (Main Channel), whose conviction has been assessed as politically motivated by domestic and international organizations, remains in prison.

 

Protection and provision of freedom of expression is the responsibility of the State. The State is responsible for creating a favorable environment for journalists’ activities and preventing interference in their work. The State is obliged to protect media independence and pluralism in accordance with the requirements of national and international legislations. Accordingly, we call on the Government:

 

1. To identify and properly punish the perpetrators and organizers of criminal acts committed during the events of July 5-6; to promptly and effectively investigate numerous attacks on journalists and illegal interference in their professional activities and to launch criminal prosecution against the relevant persons;