IPI is disturbed by the potential exposure of journalists to a chemical agent allegedly used by Georgian law enforcement authorities to disperse protests, the International Press Institute (IPI) has released the relevant statement.

“IPI is disturbed by the potential exposure of journalists to a chemical agent allegedly used by Georgian law enforcement authorities to disperse protests, which was revealed in a recent BBC investigation. The investigation showed evidence that a World War I–era chemical agent was used by authorities to disperse anti-government protesters last year, which would likely have affected journalists covering the rallies”, reads the statement.

As the organization notes, according to data recorded on the Mapping Media Freedom platform by IPI, during November-December 2024 protests, at least 81 journalists were attacked. Dozens were targeted with water cannons laced with chemicals in what in many cases appeared to be a deliberate attack on media. Evidence now indicates these journalists would likely have been exposed to the chemical agent – a predecessor of modern tear gas. This is yet another example of how journalism in Georgia has become an increasingly dangerous profession.

“We once again call for increased international pressure on Georgian Dream leaders to salvage what is left of the free press in the country”, reads the statement.