May 3, 2024
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk. (Source: UN Photo/Violaine Martin)
Cited article by UN News
HRRC reaffirms the advocacy by Volker Türk, calling for the defense of democracy and the protection of civil liberties across Georgia.
News Brief
In the midst of escalating protests in Georgia against a proposed draft law targeting transparency on foreign influence, UN Human Rights Commissioner Volker Türk urges authorities to pause the contentious bill and foster dialogue. The demonstrations, triggered by opposition to the law, have seen thousands rallying in defiance of regulations requiring media and NGOs to register as entities acting in the interest of foreign powers if they receive over 20% of funding from abroad.
Türk’s intervention comes amid growing concerns over human rights violations, with reports emerging of excessive force used against protestors and media personnel in Tbilisi. Emphasizing the paramount importance of upholding fundamental rights, particularly freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, Türk has called for thorough investigations into alleged abuses and the immediate release of arbitrarily detained individuals. He further appealed for restraint from both protestors and authorities, advocating for a withdrawal of the draft law and constructive dialogue involving civil society and media organizations to address the underlying issues surrounding freedom of expression and association.