**European Parliament Votes on Resolution to Protect Media Freedom in Georgia**
Today, the European Parliament is voting on a resolution that demands the immediate release of journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli and other unlawfully detained individuals. The resolution, authored by 63 MEPs from five political groups, also condemns the Georgian government’s attacks on democratic institutions and journalists.
The text of the resolution has now been made public, and it is clear that the European Parliament is taking a strong stance against the repression in Georgia. The document demands the unconditional release of Mzia Amaghlobeli, who was arrested for her reporting on the COVID-19 pandemic, and condemns her criminal prosecution as politically motivated.
The resolution also expresses concern over the systematic attacks by the Georgian government on independent media, civil society, and judicial independence. It calls for an independent investigation into the harassment and violence against journalists in Georgia, including smear campaigns, legal harassment, mistreatment in custody, and gender-based violence.
**Systemic Attacks on Democracy**
One of the key points of contention is the Georgian Dream regime’s attacks on democratic institutions, political opposition, and civil society. The resolution condemns these actions as “systemic” and demands that the authorities release all political prisoners, including activists Mate Devadze, opposition leaders Zurab Japaridze, Nika Melia, and Nika Gvaramia, as well as former President Mikheil Saakashvili.
The resolution also expresses concern over reports of threats to the safety of the husband of United National Movement chairwoman Tina Bokuchava and their children. This highlights the broader impact of the repression on families and individuals who are not directly involved in politics.
**Call for International Action**
The European Parliament is calling on the international community, particularly the EU, to take action to protect media freedom and civil liberties in Georgia. The resolution urges the EU to increase its support for independent media and civil society following the enactment of the “foreign agents” law (FARA), which has been widely criticized as repressive.
The resolution also calls on the EU to monitor ongoing judicial proceedings and impose bilateral sanctions against leaders and high-ranking officials of the Georgian Dream responsible for democratic backsliding. This is a clear signal that the European Parliament is not satisfied with the inaction by the Council, Member States, and the Commission so far.
**What’s Next?**
As the European Parliament votes on this resolution today, it will be interesting to see how the international community responds to the demands for action. The European Union has been criticized for its lack of action in protecting democracy and human rights in Georgia. This resolution may put pressure on EU leaders to take a stronger stance against the Georgian government’s repression.
The self-declared authorities of Georgia, including President Zurabishvili, are also being called upon to respond to these demands. It remains to be seen how they will react to this international pressure.
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