Austrian MEP Lena Schilling Denounces Georgian Journalist's Trial as 'Political Persecution'
By Liza Mchedlidze
Monday, May 19, 2025
Lena Schilling, a Member of the European Parliament from Austria (Greens/EFA), has sharply criticized the ongoing trial of Georgian journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli, calling the proceedings "political persecution" and warning that the case poses a serious challenge to Georgia's European aspirations.
Schilling traveled to Batumi on May 16 to attend a court hearing in the case of Amaghlobeli, director of Batumelebi/Netgazeti, who faces criminal charges for allegedly slapping a police official during a protest earlier this year.
"What I witnessed in court today is not the rule of law. Mzia Amaghlobeli was silenced. Ridiculous claims were presented as evidence - this is political persecution, not a fair trial," Schilling said.
The MEP described the trial as a test of Georgia's commitment to European values and democratic standards. "I sincerely hope that Georgia will return to its European path and become a member of the EU," she said. "To achieve this, we must especially support democratic civil society. Authoritarian regimes know that an active civil society is their greatest enemy. Their fight is therefore our fight."
Amaghlobeli was arrested on January 12 and is charged under Article 353¹ of Georgia's Criminal Code, which addresses violence against law enforcement officers. If convicted, she faces between four and seven years in prison. At the hearing, medical expert Givi Chkhartishvili testified regarding injuries allegedly sustained by police division head Irakli Dgebuadze.
The trial has drawn widespread attention. Alongside Schilling, German Ambassador to Georgia Peter Fischer was also present in court, highlighting growing international concern.
"Mzia is not an isolated case - her story reflects the global pattern of brave female journalists being silenced," Schilling added. "She is the voice of an entire movement. Her courage inspires all of Georgia - and gives hope to many young women."
Schilling concluded her remarks by praising Amaghlobeli's family and supporters for their strength and perseverance. "I was deeply moved by her resilience," she said.
The trial continues in Batumi City Court as calls for Amaghlobeli's release intensify among local and international rights groups.
