The Democracy Research Institute expresses its condolences to the family, relatives and community over the death of 15-year-old Luka Siradze.

The violations highlighted in the case, including, the unspecialized law enforcement personnel contacting the juvenile, the alleged use of threats and intimidation to gain a confession, indicate on the systemic shortcomings of the Georgian justice system. Notwithstanding the specially developed Juvenile Justice Code, which was rightly regarded as a significant step forward, the police system does not / cannot protect the best interests of a child and is not based on an individual approach.

The Democracy Research Institute believes that systemic flaws cannot be eliminated only by charging certain individuals and calls on the State Inspector’s Service to conduct an investigation within a tight deadline. Regardless of their official hierarchy, identification of all persons involved in a case, including their role, and responsibility, will allow the public to analyse flaws in the justice system.

The investigation of Luka Siradze's case will test whether the State Inspectorate's Service is effective in combating the alleged crime committed by law enforcement officials.

The Democracy Research Institute will closely monitor developments around the case.