Prepared by Messenger Staff
34 Countries Raise Concerns Over Georgia's Human Rights Record
A group of 34 countries has raised concerns at the United Nations Human Rights Council over what it described as a worsening human rights situation in Georgia.
The statement, delivered by Lithuanian diplomat Ausra Semaskieme, cited recent legislation restricting freedom of expression, assembly and association.
"We would like to draw the Council's attention to further deteriorating the human rights situation in Georgia," the statement said, adding that the legislation "does not align with international human rights law."
The countries said that since November 2024, protesters, journalists, media workers, civil society representatives and political opponents have faced "threats, assaults, harassment, fines and the freezing of their bank accounts."
They also expressed concern over the convictions and sentences of protesters and opposition figures.
"All those arbitrarily detained must be immediately released," the group said.
The countries called on Georgian authorities to investigate alleged rights violations, hold those responsible accountable and repeal legislation they said breached international standards.
The statement was backed by 34 countries, including Germany, France, Lithuania, Poland, Sweden, Switzerland, Canada, Australia and Ukraine.
The European Union separately urged Georgia to "uphold fundamental freedoms" and called for the "repeal or substantial revision" of legislation that undermines international human rights standards.
Georgian Security Officials Attend China Security Forum
Georgia's top security officials are in China for an international law enforcement forum as Tbilisi continues to strengthen ties with Beijing.
State Security Service chief Geka Geladze and Deputy Interior Minister Gaga Kirkitadze are attending the Global Public Security Cooperation Forum in Lianyungang, Jiangsu province, which runs from September 8 to 10.
The meeting has drawn officials from more than 100 countries to discuss issues including drug trafficking, migration, terrorism, cybersecurity and police training.
Kirkitadze attended sessions on drug control and police education, while Geladze toured a security technology exhibition with China's Public Security Minister Wang Xiaohong.
The annual forum was created by China in 2015 and adopted its current name in 2022.
The Georgian delegation's visit comes three months after Georgia and China announced a "comprehensive strategic partnership," upgrading ties established in 2023.
The closer relationship has raised concerns in Washington. In June, the U.S. House passed legislation seeking a report on Russian and Chinese influence in Georgia and a five-year plan for U.S.-Georgia relations.
