**Georgian Authorities Face Backlash Over Abuse of Women Protesters**
The Georgian government’s efforts to silence women protesters through intimidation and violence have only managed to fuel their resistance, according to a recent report by Amnesty International. The watchdog organization has documented numerous cases of abuse against women involved in the protests, including arbitrary detention, unlawful strip searches, and verbal threats.
One such case involves opposition politician Elene Khoshtaria, who was detained and subjected to a humiliating strip search. Similar treatment was meted out to activist Nino Makharadze and protest organizer Kristina Botkoveli, whose home was raided by police. Amnesty’s Eastern Europe and Central Asia Deputy Director, Denis Krivosheev, said that the authorities’ tactics are not only a violation of Georgian law but also international human rights standards.
**A Pattern of Abuse**
The report highlights a disturbing pattern of verbal abuse and threats of sexual violence against women protesters. Police officers have been caught on camera calling protesters “wh*res” and threatening them and their families. In one particularly shocking incident, activist Natia Dzidziguri was forced to kneel in a police van surrounded by men while officers hurled sexually charged insults at her.
Journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli’s case is also detailed in the report, where she was subjected to sexist abuse by police and allegedly spat on by the Batumi police chief. Despite a video capturing the incident, authorities have failed to investigate or hold anyone accountable.
**Amnesty’s Call for Action**
In response to these abuses, Amnesty International has called on the Georgian government to take immediate action. Denis Krivosheev urged the authorities to end all forms of gender-based reprisals and unlawful use of force by law enforcement. The organization also recommends that the government:
* Ensure the prohibition of torture and other degrading treatment, paying attention to gender-based violence.
* End the practice of arbitrary searches and adopt a clear written policy explaining the legal grounds and specific procedure for such searches.
* Investigate effectively all allegations of gender-based violence and police misconduct.
* Suspend officers implicated in abuse during the investigation process.
* Ensure victims receive full reparations, including compensation and rehabilitation.
The Georgian government’s response to these demands will be closely watched by human rights organizations and the international community.
