Journalists Attacked in Georgia, Global Press Freedom Groups React
Global organizations that protect press freedom have spoken out against the violence faced by journalists during pro-EU protests in Georgia. The groups, including the International Press Institute (IPI), have issued a joint statement condemning the attacks.
According to the Mapping Media Freedom platform, at least 50 media workers were physically attacked, verbally abused, or obstructed as police tried to break up the protests. Many of those targeted worked for independent or government-critical outlets.
Three journalists are known to have been seriously hurt in the violence. Aleksandre Keshelashvili and Ana Mskhaladze from Publika.ge were among them. They claim they were targeted because of their work criticizing the government. Beka Beradze from Radio Tavisufleba was also injured.
A journalist named Guram Rogava, who works for Formula TV, was hit by a police officer and left with serious injuries. He needed hospital treatment after being shown on video being punched by the officer.
Other journalists and camera operators were also targeted, including Davit Bejanishvili from the Georgian Public Broadcaster. They claim to have been injured or obstructed while doing their job.
The groups are concerned about a pattern of hostility towards journalists in Georgia. Similar incidents happened during protests against a law on foreign influence earlier this year. The statement was signed by 12 organizations, including Reporters Without Borders and PEN International.
They call for action from the international community to protect media freedom in the country.