The "Clooney Foundation for Justice" has announced that TrialWatch, which provides free legal assistance to support freedom of speech worldwide, plans to monitor the trial of independent Georgian journalist Mzia Amaglobeli, according to a statement from the organization.
The organization stated that the monitoring is set to begin today, March 18.
"Amaglobeli, who founded the award-winning online media outlets 'Batumelebi' and 'Netgazeti,' was arrested on the evening of January 11 after placing a sticker on the fence of a police station calling for a general strike—a gesture in support of the ongoing protests that have swept the country since November 2024. After being released on bail on January 12, a confrontation with the police occurred when people gathered to demand her release, leading to her immediate re-arrest," the foundation's statement reads.
According to the foundation, Mzia Amaglobeli faces up to seven years in prison. She has been denied bail three times solely based on the prosecution's claims, without properly considering the defense's arguments for bail.
"There have also been reports that after her arrest, the city's police chief threatened and spat at Amaglobeli. To protest her detention and the treatment of other protesters in Georgia, Amaglobeli went on a hunger strike for 38 days while in custody," the statement adds.
The foundation further stated that after the trial, TrialWatch will prepare a report assessing the case based on international and regional fair trial standards.
The statement emphasizes that the Georgian government's response to the mass protests that began in November 2024—characterized by police violence, mistreatment of detainees, and attacks on journalists—has sparked international criticism and concern.
"The Georgian Center for Media, Information, and Social Research has documented more than 90 incidents in which law enforcement officers attacked media workers, both verbally and physically, or obstructed their work," the statement notes.
For context, the "Clooney Foundation for Justice" was co-founded by Hollywood actor George Clooney and his wife, Amal Clooney. The foundation provides free legal assistance to protect freedom of speech and women's rights in more than 40 countries.
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