Demand accountability and justice for protesters in Georgia 

Since 29 November 2024, people across Georgia have been protesting repressive laws and the government’s move to pause the process to join the European Union, amid systemic human rights violations. The authorities have violently suppressed these protests, with widespread reports of torture and other ill-treatment of protesters. The Georgian government must ensure that these human rights violations are independently investigated, those suspected to be responsible are fairly held to account, and further abuses are prevented. 

100s of people subjected to unlawful force by police, including torture and other ill-treatment

No justice for widespread human rights violations

While international attention has faded, the crackdown on protesters has intensified.  Authorities have used unlawful force, arbitrary detention and prosecution, torture and other ill-treatment, as well as gender-based violence. Protesters have faced tear gas and other chemical irritants, water cannons and beatings by both police and unidentified groups. Journalists and activists have been targeted, including through smear campaigns labelling them as ‘foreign agents’.  

According to the Public Defender’s Office, more than 300 instances of torture and other ill-treatment have been documented, with a number of victims officially recognized. The true number is likely higher.

Despite some recent investigations, there has been little meaningful accountability for these violations, allowing abuses to continue. 

Failure to hold those suspected to be responsible to account fuels impunity and is in breach of Georgia’s Constitutional and international human rights commitments. People in Georgia continue to demand justice. The international community must stand with them.  

What can you do to help?  

Call on the Prosecutor General of Georgia to end the crackdown on peaceful protesters. Ensure all cases of unlawful use of force by the police are independently and effectively investigated and those suspected to be responsible are held to account in fair trials. Protest must be protected.