**PACE Calls for Immediate Release of Politically Motivated Persecution Victims in Georgia**
The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) has joined a chorus of voices demanding the immediate release of individuals persecuted on political grounds in Georgia. In a statement, rapporteurs Edite Estrela from Portugal and Sabine Čudić from Bosnia and Herzegovina called for an end to the misuse of judicial procedures to silence opposition and dissenting voices.
“This persecution and the misuse of judicial procedures must end,” the rapporteurs declared. “They are incompatible with a democratic society.” The statement emphasized that PACE stands in solidarity with representatives of all political groups who have made similar demands during debates in the Assembly.
**A Call for Accountability**
The release of the statement comes at a time when Georgia is facing mounting criticism over its human rights record. PACE’s decision to conduct a fact-finding visit to the country later this year reflects concerns about democratic backsliding and the need for open dialogue with all actors involved.
“The purpose of our visit will be to engage in open dialogue with all actors in the country,” said Estrela and Čudić, “to ensure full respect for Georgia’s obligations as a member of the Council of Europe.” The visit is set to take place in the fall of this year and will likely focus on addressing concerns related to political persecution and judicial misuse.
**A Growing Concern**
The PACE statement highlights growing concerns about the human rights situation in Georgia. As a member of the Council of Europe, Georgia has committed to upholding democratic values and protecting individual freedoms. However, allegations of politically motivated persecution and judicial manipulation have been mounting in recent years.
The visit by PACE rapporteurs is seen as an opportunity for Georgia to address these concerns and demonstrate its commitment to democracy and human rights. As such, it remains to be seen how the Georgian government will respond to the demands made by PACE and other international bodies.
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