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Georgian Journalist Fined for ‘Blocking Road’ While Covering Protest

Since November 28, 2024, during the ongoing pro-European protests in Georgia, journalists have repeatedly faced attacks and unlawful restrictions. There have been numerous cases of media workers being unjustly sanctioned while performing their professional duties — including fines for allegedly blocking roads while reporting on the protests, often without any legitimate basis.

Between May 2024 and May 2025, 342 cases of violations against the rights of media representatives were reported in Georgia

While covering ongoing protests in Tbilisi and other cities across Georgia, a clear pattern has emerged: journalists, camera operators, and photographers are increasingly being obstructed in their work. This includes instances of verbal and physical abuse, as well as the damage to or confiscation of their equipment.

342 Cases of Media Rights Violations Recorded in Georgia from May 2024 to May 2025

The Center for Media, Information, and Social Studies (CMIS) monitors the media environment in Georgia, studies the working conditions of journalists, and documents cases of violations of their rights.

From Foreign-Agent Law to Protest Crackdowns: Assessing Georgia’s Media and Information Environment,  2024

This study was developed as part of the 2025 annual report “Vibrant Information Barometer” (VIBE) by the International Research and Exchanges Board (IREX). For years, this research was supported by the USAID, but in 2025 it was terminated following the decision of the United States Government.

Georgian Dream Approves Controversial Media Restriction Laws

The Georgian Dream Parliament has fast-tracked the adoption of new restrictive laws targeting independent and critical media. These include the ”Foreign Agents Registration Act” [FARA] and amendments to the laws on Broadcasting and Grants. The legislation was passed amidst ongoing repression and violence against activists and journalists.

Meeting in Batumi on the Accessibility of Public Information

On July 25, 2024, the Center for Media, Information, and Social Research held a meeting in Batumi on the issue of access to public information.

Discussion on Public Information in Marneuli and Akhaltsikhe

The Center for Media, Information, and Social Research held meetings in Marneuli, and on July 6 in Akhaltsikhe.

Public Information, Media, and Citizen Engagement – Meetings in Gori

The Center for Media, Information, and Social Research held meetings in Gori on the topic of public information, media, and citizen engagement.