RFS: The adoption of laws on “foreign influence” and “family values” marginalises journalists, exposes them to censorship - official interference undermines efforts to improve press freedom

The adoption of laws on “foreign influence” and “family values” marginalises journalists, exposes them to censorship and reduces space for free speech, - reads the 2025 World Press Freedom Index report issued by Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

According to the report, official interference undermines efforts to improve press freedom.

„The environment remains hostile for independent and opposition media, with a growing number of verbal and physical attacks against journalists. The adoption of laws on “foreign influence” and “family values” marginalises journalists, exposes them to censorship and reduces space for free speech”, reads the document.

“The country is undergoing a new and serious political crisis following widely contested legislative elections in October 2024, which have plunged the country into a repressive environment and international isolation. This environment is conducive to sustained competition for control of television networks. Although Georgian law prohibits political parties from owning media outlets, the big networks generally defend the interests of their owners, who often have close ties to political leaders. The same goes for state-owned media, which are subject to strong interference by the authorities. At the same time, the authorities often refuse to respond to media that criticise them and sometimes resort to censorship, raids, smear campaigns and intimidation”, reads the report.