HRC63 - JST - The human rights situation in Georgia

Human Rights Council - 63rd Session
Item 2: General debate
Joint statement by Lithuania on the human rights situation in Georgia
8 September 2026

Mr President,

I deliver this statement on behalf of a group of countries.

We would like to draw the Council’s attention to further deteriorating human rights situation in Georgia, particularly in light of legislation adopted in recent years that imposes restrictions on freedoms of expression, assembly and association and does not align with international human rights law.

Since November 2024 peaceful protesters, journalists, media workers, civil society, and political opponents have been facing threats, assaults, harassment, fines, and the freezing of their bank accounts.

We note with concern that many protesters and prominent opposition figures have been convicted and sentenced, including several in recent months. All those arbitrarily detained, must be immediately released.

We regret that despite repeated appeals from the international community, impartial investigations into allegations of excessive use of force and ill-treatment against demonstrators and detainees have not been fully carried out.

Therefore, we call on the Georgian authorities to repeal concerned legislation, conduct impartial investigation into all alleged human rights violations, ensure accountability for those responsible and engage in meaningful dialogue with the civil society and international community.

Thank you.