Violent attacks on civic activists, members of minority communities and journalists in Georgia are unacceptable, the European Union External Action Service (EEAS) Spokesperson, Peter Stano commented on the July 5 developments in Tbilisi.

“Respecting and protecting fundamental freedoms of expression and assembly is a basic task of any government in a democracy, especially one that aspires for closer ties with the European Union. Law enforcement authorities have the responsibility to uphold a safe and secure environment for those exercising these rights, including for media representatives. Acts of violence need to be investigated swiftly and thoroughly.

The objective of combatting all forms of discrimination rests on the principle of equality as enshrined in the Georgian Constitution and is codified by law. Georgia needs to step up efforts to end all forms of discrimination, including based on gender and sexual orientation, and to better protect the rights of LGBTIQ people.

These principles are also important in the context of developing EU-Georgia cooperation. Today, on 6 July, the EU and Georgia held the Human Rights Dialogue where the recent events and protection of rights of LGBTIQ people were on the agenda,” Peter Stano said.

Fifty-five persons, among them fifty-three media representatives, were assaulted during the anti-Tbilisi Pride rally on July 5, according to the Georgian Interior Ministry.