|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Warsaw, 7 July 2025 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) has voiced serious concern over escalating restrictions on civil society and political dissent in Georgia, citing recent legislation, arrests of opposition leaders, and the prosecution of peaceful protestors as threats to democratic governance.
⚖️ Mounting Pressure on Civil Liberties
ODIHR Director Maria Telalian condemned the Georgian government’s actions, urging the withdrawal of laws that hinder the legitimate work of civil society organizations.
“Civil and political rights are a lynchpin of democracy and the rule of law,” Telalian stated.
The Office highlighted:
- Arrests of dozens of peaceful demonstrators in recent months
- Convictions of eight opposition politicians, most sentenced to prison
- Reports of unfair trial practices and intimidation of human rights defenders
📜 Legislative Concerns
ODIHR previously advised Georgia to repeal the controversial “foreign agents law”, warning that it stigmatizes NGOs and restricts their operations. In March 2025, the Office criticized amendments to laws governing public assembly, calling the proposed sanctions excessive and incompatible with international human rights standards.
🗳️ Election Monitoring Rebuffed
ODIHR expressed regret over Georgia’s decision not to invite the Office to observe upcoming local elections, breaking with a two-decade tradition of international oversight.
“We remain ready to deploy an observation mission if invited,” Telalian affirmed.
🤝 Commitment to Democratic Support
Despite setbacks, ODIHR reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Georgia’s democratic institutions and civil society. The OSCE participating States have collectively endorsed the principles of fair trials, freedom of assembly, and equal political competition, which ODIHR says are now under threat.
