**Journalist’s Prison Sentence Sparks Concerns**
The Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, Michael O’Flaherty, has strongly condemned the two-year prison sentence handed down to Georgian journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli. In a statement released yesterday, O’Flaherty described the punishment as “disproportionate” and raised serious concerns about the country’s respect for freedom of expression.
**Journalism Under Threat?**
According to O’Flaherty, this harsh sentence sends a chilling message to journalists in Georgia that their work is not valued or respected. The Commissioner has urged the authorities to release Amaghlobeli immediately and ensure that journalists can operate freely without fear of persecution. This call for action highlights a worrying trend in which journalists are facing increasing pressure and intimidation.
**Freedom of Expression Under Threat?**
The case of Mzia Amaghlobeli raises serious questions about Georgia’s commitment to upholding the right to freedom of expression, enshrined in the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). The ECHR has long been a cornerstone of human rights protection in Europe, and its provisions are designed to safeguard individual freedoms. O’Flaherty’s comments suggest that Georgia is failing to live up to these standards.
**What Does This Mean for Journalists?**
The prison sentence handed down to Amaghlobeli serves as a stark reminder that journalists continue to face significant risks when reporting on sensitive or critical stories. In an era where press freedom is increasingly under attack, this case highlights the need for governments to prioritize the protection of journalists and the principles of free expression.
Read More @ www.interpressnews.ge
