The case of the currently detained journalist Mzia Amaglobeli is yet another such example on how the authorities are treating journalists and anyone who speaks freely, - reads a statement issued by High Representative/Vice-President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas and EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos.

The statement notes that those responsible for the violence must be punished.

“The Georgian authorities have resorted to intimidation tactics and violence to silence dissenting voices. Peaceful protesters, journalists, and opposition politicians have been targeted for exercising their fundamental rights. The case of the currently detained journalist Mzia Amaglobeli is yet another such example on how the authorities are treating journalists and anyone who speaks freely. Mzia, currently on hunger strike is a symbol of courage of all those unjustly detained. Those responsible for the violence must be held accountable. We call on the Georgian authorities to release all journalists, activists and political detainees detained unjustly.

We urge the authorities to ensure a dialogue with all political forces and representatives of civil society. No option should be excluded to re-establish trust and dialogue. The recommendations of the OSCE/ODIHR report on the latest elections should be implemented as a matter of urgency. The European Union remains ready to support all efforts towards a democratic, stable, and European future for Georgia”, reads the statement.