We strongly condemn the violent response of the Georgian officials to the peaceful protests of Georgian civil society, independent media and politicians who defend the democratic future of the country - the so-called "troika" of the OSCE, which consists of three - current (Malta), former (North Macedonia) and The future (Finland) chair will consist of the country.

"We, the members of the OSCE "troika", strongly condemn the violent response of the Georgian officials to the peaceful protests of the Georgian civil society, independent media and politicians who are defending the country's democratic future. We call on Georgian officials to immediately stop using repressive tactics and intimidation, including arbitrary arrests and physical violence.

We call on the Georgian officials to ensure the protection of freedom of assembly and freedom of expression for the Georgian people, which is in line with Georgia's international obligations. Laws enacted against these obligations must be revoked.

All allegations of violence, electoral fraud, and attacks against democratic values ​​and principles must be investigated in a credible manner, and all those responsible for these crimes must be held accountable.

We call on Georgian officials to uphold human rights, democracy and the rule of law, consistent with our common OSCE principles and commitments, as already outlined in the Helsinki Final Act and the Paris Charter.

We encourage Georgian officials to use the various tools and expertise that the OSCE and its institutions can offer. "Troika" is ready to facilitate any exchange for this purpose.

We stand with the Georgian people, when they express their aspiration for a democratic and European future, which is written in the Constitution of Georgia", the statement reads.