GYLA: ECHR begins review of Mzia Amaglobeli’s case

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has begun reviewing the case of Mzia Amaglobeli, the Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA) reports.

According to GYLA, the case may be granted significant impact status due to its importance.

“The case of Mzia Amaglobeli has been taken up by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR), and the letter received indicates that it may be granted significant impact status due to its importance. Notably, the Strasbourg Court began considering the case within a very short timeframe. Just two months ago, we submitted the complaint, and it is already being reviewed on its merits regarding the alleged violations.

As the public is aware, several fundamental rights protected under the European Convention on Human Rights are at issue. These include the right to liberty and security (Article 5), the right to a fair trial (Article 6), the right to respect for private and family life (Article 8), freedom of expression (Article 10), and the right to effective treatment (Article 13) in conjunction with Articles 8 and 10. Additionally, Article 18, which concerns the improper use of restrictions on rights, is also cited. The Court has initiated communication with the Government of Georgia concerning all these alleged violations, and the state has been given time to respond to the Court’s questions. This marks an important phase of the legal process.

We remind the public that Mzia Amaglobeli remains in unlawful detention, which is the central issue of this case and the basis for the alleged violations. Unfortunately, other proceedings against her are also ongoing, including cases under administrative offense legislation, as well as a criminal case that is now in its final stage. Should her rights not be upheld domestically in these matters, we will pursue additional international legal mechanisms.

It is also important to note that the European Court of Human Rights has already accepted the first case submitted on behalf of Mzia Amaglobeli, and formal procedures have been initiated,” the GYLA stated.

Mzia Amaglobeli, founder of Batumelebi and Netgazeti media outlets, has been in custody for nearly five months. The charge of assaulting a police officer carries a potential prison sentence of four to seven years.