The EU Delegation to Georgia has released a statement in connection with International Human Rights Day.

“Human Rights Day reminds us that the promotion and protection of human rights have to remain an overarching priority for the European Union’s work here in Georgia as well as globally.

We cannot be complacent. Crises are particular tests for the realization of human rights and the respect of democratic values. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and its socio-economic consequences impact negatively on the upholding of human rights, deepen pre-existing inequalities and increase the pressure on persons in vulnerable situations.

The EU is ready to work with our Georgian partners to address identified vulnerabilities and to mitigate future risks.

Our commitment to upholding human rights in Georgia is as strong as ever. This week we are announcing five new projects, including under our EU4 Human Rights program.

These efforts will support Georgian government institutions, the Parliament, local authorities, and civil society organizations in the implementation and monitoring of human rights, the strengthening of child rights protection, the fight against gender-based violence, the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities, the rights of minorities, data protection and strengthening the accountability of law enforcement officers.

A lot of work lies ahead. The start of this new assistance coincides with the start of a new government and parliament, and we keenly expect the adoption of the new Human Rights Strategy beyond 2020 and its accompanying Action Plan,” – the statement by EU Delegation to Georgia reads.

The European Union adopted its new Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy 2020 -2024, which defines the EU priorities in relations with all third countries.