**Journalist Denied Entry to Georgia, Reporters Without Borders Speaks Out**
A British journalist has been denied entry to the country of Georgia, sparking concern from the international press freedom organization, Reporters Without Borders (RSF). Will Neill, a seasoned journalist who has lived in Georgia since 2022, was refused entry at the Armenian-Georgian border on May 20.
According to RSF, this move follows a series of hostile attacks against Neill earlier in April. Pro-government politicians and media outlets had launched a smear campaign against him after he published an investigation into Georgian power circles. The article, which appeared in the British magazine Byline Times, highlighted business ties between UK private equity group Hunnewell Partners and Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich.
**Repression of Foreign Journalists**
RSF sees Neill’s case as a disturbing example of the growing repression of foreign journalists in Georgia. “Will Neal’s case marks a new stage in the repression of foreign journalists in Georgia,” said Jeanne Cavelier, Head of the RSF Eastern Europe and Central Asia Desk. “It clearly illustrates the authorities’ rejection of any independent journalistic scrutiny of power structures.”
The organization condemns Neill’s expulsion as “politically motivated” and calls for its immediate reversal. RSF also urges British authorities to hold the Georgian government accountable for this violation of one of a British citizen’s rights.
**Background: A Country Where Press Freedom is Deteriorating**
Georgia has been experiencing a decline in press freedom over recent years. Pro-government politicians and media outlets have become increasingly aggressive towards independent journalists, with many facing harassment, intimidation, or administrative obstruction.
In this context, Neill’s investigation into Georgian power circles was particularly sensitive. His findings linked the country’s ruling party to business ties with a sanctioned Russian oligarch, raising questions about corruption and influence peddling.
The incident highlights the risks faced by journalists who dare to scrutinize powerful interests in Georgia. As RSF emphasizes, such intimidation tactics must end, and press freedom should be respected in all its forms.
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