The Public Defender of Georgia responds to the planned protest rallies in Tbilisi on November 24 and clarifies several issues related to the management of assemblies.

As the Public Defender notes, the use of any kind of force or special means by law enforcement officers must meet the strict test of necessity and proportionality, and the use of any special means must be preceded by a warning.

At the same time, the Public Defender calls on the organizers and participants of the rally not to go beyond the limits of a peaceful assembly.

“The right to peaceful assembly and demonstration is a fundamental human right, protected by the Constitution of Georgia and a number of international documents.

Law enforcement agencies, when exercising their powers, should not exceed the limits of the legislation, should not use force against peaceful participants of the assembly, and should not prevent the participants of the demonstration from exercising their rights guaranteed by the Constitution.

In any case provided for by the legislation, when it is necessary, the participants of the protest should be given a reasonable period of time to comply with the lawful request of the police.

The use of any kind of force or special means by law enforcement officers should meet the strict test of necessity and proportionality, and the use of any special means should be preceded by a warning.

It is important that journalists are not interfered with during the assemblies and their safety is ensured.

At the same time, the Public Defender calls on the organizers and participants of the demonstration not to exceed the limits of a peaceful assembly.

The Public Defender's representatives will supervise the course of the protests within the scope of their authority and, if necessary, will respond accordingly," the statement states.