OSCE States Activate Moscow Mechanism to Send Human Rights Mission to Georgia
By Liza Mchedlidze
Friday, January 30, 2026
Twenty-four OSCE participating states have decided to establish an expert mission to Georgia by activating the organization's Moscow Mechanism, citing a deteriorating human rights situation in the country, the United Kingdom's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said.
According to the statement, the Moscow Mechanism allows OSCE states to mandate an independent expert mission to examine serious human rights concerns. The decision reflects growing alarm among participating states over Georgia's adherence to its international human rights obligations.
The UK Foreign Office noted that the move follows earlier steps taken by OSCE members. In December 2024, 38 OSCE states activated the Vienna Mechanism with regard to Georgia, seeking additional information and clarification about developments raising concern. However, the statement said that since then, "the concern of member states regarding Georgia's adherence to its human rights obligations and international commitments in the human rights sphere has only increased."
"As an OSCE participating State, Georgia has undertaken to uphold human rights and fundamental freedoms," the statement reads, stressing that respect for these principles is essential for peace, justice, and cooperation among states.
The 24 states called on the Georgian authorities to cooperate with the expert mission and facilitate its work. While noting Georgia's engagement with OSCE delegations during 2025, the statement urged the government to continue that engagement in line with the Moscow Document.
"Such engagement would demonstrate goodwill and readiness for a constructive and open dialogue," the statement said.
The expert mission is expected to examine the human rights situation in Georgia and present its findings to OSCE participating states.
