**Estonia Sanctions 19 Georgian Officials, Criticizing Human Rights Abuses**
In a move to support Georgia’s democratic values and human rights, Estonia has sanctioned 19 more Georgian officials. The list includes judges, prosecutors, and politicians who have been accused of persecuting peaceful protesters, journalists, and opposition representatives.
The sanctions were announced by Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna on July 17. According to him, these individuals are “directly or indirectly responsible for the persecution of peaceful protesters, journalists, and opposition representatives.” The violence used by Georgian authorities, politicized court proceedings, and disproportionate punishments against protesters and opposition politicians are in contradiction with the core values of democracy and the conditions associated with Georgia’s EU candidate status.
The list of sanctioned individuals includes judges Nino Galustashvili and Jvebe Nachkebia, who sentenced protesters to years in prison. Prosecutors Ani Khubejashvili, Mari Meshveliani, Viktor Metreveli, and Natia Tatiashvili are also on the list. Georgian Dream Minister of Justice Paata Salia and Adjara Government Head Sulkhan Tamazashvili, a former police chief, have been sanctioned as well.
These sanctions come at a time when Georgia is facing criticism from the international community for its human rights record. Latvia has also expanded its sanctions list on July 15, adding 55 Georgian individuals over democratic backsliding and human rights violations in Georgia.
**Estonia’s Stance on Human Rights**
Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna emphasized that Estonia will continue to support Georgia’s civil society, independent media, and European integration by standing up for the rights and dignity of the Georgian people. This move is a clear indication of Estonia’s commitment to promoting human rights and democracy in the region.
**Regional Response**
The sanctions imposed by Estonia are not isolated. Latvia has also taken steps to criticize Georgia’s human rights record. On July 15, it expanded its sanctions list, adding 55 Georgian individuals. Lithuania, another Baltic state, has previously sanctioned Ivanishvili, a MIA official, in December 2024.
**What’s Next?**
The situation in Georgia remains tense, with ongoing protests and criticism from the international community. The sanctions imposed by Estonia are likely to have significant implications for the country’s human rights record and its relations with the European Union. As Georgia continues to navigate these challenges, it is clear that the international community will continue to monitor the situation closely.
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