A new report by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) highlights a significant decline in human rights and democratic standards in Georgia, urging immediate reforms to safeguard fundamental freedoms. The findings follow an OSCE fact-finding mission triggered by 23 participating states invoking the “Moscow Mechanism” to investigate concerns about democratic backsliding and repression of dissent.
The report documents widespread violence and abuses targeting protesters, journalists, political opposition figures, and government critics, noting “near-total impunity for perpetrators.” Excessive use of force by police, sometimes amounting to torture or other prohibited treatment, and the failure to conduct effective investigations are flagged as serious violations of the right to peaceful assembly.
Legislative changes since 2024 have significantly restricted fundamental freedoms, marginalizing independent groups and media outlets. Adjustments to broadcasting regulations, protest rules, and family values laws have further narrowed civic space and limited public participation.
The report also raises concerns over the misuse of criminal and administrative proceedings against political opponents and critics, highlighting cases of unfair convictions, compromised judicial independence, and over-reliance on police testimonies to imprison protest participants.
Analysis of the 2024 parliamentary elections shows evidence of voter pressure, misuse of administrative resources, and an uneven playing field, with attempts to ban opposition parties posing a threat to political pluralism.
The OSCE recommends that Georgian authorities repeal restrictive legislation, release individuals detained for political reasons, hold security forces accountable, and implement reforms to strengthen judicial independence and electoral integrity. Participating states are urged to use the report’s findings to support international efforts, including by the United Nations and the Council of Europe, to protect human rights and Georgia’s democratic institutions.
