Civil society organizations in Georgia are challenging the “Transparency of Foreign Influence”, also known as the “Russian Law”, at the European Court of Human Rights. Nona Kurdovanidze is the head of the Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association. She announced that 16 media outlets, 120 civil societies organizations, and four individuals are bringing the appeal to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR).
Kurdovanidze, during a press conference, highlighted that Georgian nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), are already suffering negative consequences as a result of the controversial “Russian Law.” The law is perceived as an attempt to suppress the civil society in Georgia and the media, limiting their activities and critical voices.
She said that the appeal to ECHR marks a new phase of their fight against a law that they believe violates human rights fundamentals. If the European Court finds that the law violates human rights, then the Georgian Government would be forced to amend or annul the law.
The coalition that is challenging the law includes groups working on environmental protection, disability support, women’s rights, children’s rights and judicial reforms.
“The Russian law” not only aims at restricting civil society and media, but also serves to isolate the citizens from each other and suppress critical voices,” Kurdovanidze said.
She explained that the legal basis for their appeal was: “We are challenging violations to the rights to freedom of assembly, association, freedom to expression, the right of private and family life and protection from discrimination. We also challenge restrictions on rights.”
Kurdovanidze expressed his disappointment with the Georgian government and judiciary. He added: “Fighting independent organisations with Russian methods violates basic human rights and undermines Georgia’s path towards Euro-Atlantic Integration… Our fight against ‘Russian Law’ continues despite the Constitutional Court’s failure to perform its duty. It will, without doubt, end in victory for Georgians.”
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