The Commissioner of the Council of Europe on Human Rights, Michael O'Flaertie, expressed serious concern due to the cruel actions of the police during protests in Georgia. He called on the country to respect the rights to freedom of peaceful assemblies, freedom of speech and freedom of the media, reports "European Truth" .
- The use of force against demonstrators:
- O'Flaert stressed that violence by individual protesters cannot justify excessive force by law enforcement.
- The police, he said, used waterlands and pepper cans even against peaceful protesters.
- Obstruction of journalists:
- From November 29, at least 35 media representatives have been physical and verbal attacks, which prevented them from performing their professional duties.
- The commissioner urged the Georgian authorities to guarantee the security of journalists.
- Call to release the detainees:
- O'Flaertes asked to release all detained persons who participated in peaceful demonstrations and investigate the actions of law enforcement officers who probably exceeded their powers.
The Georgian Special Investigation Service has started checking the facts of police violations. The commissioner also stressed that the use of force should be an extreme measure after attempting to de -escalate the situation.
