The Charter of Journalistic Ethics calls on the Ministry of Internal Affairs to urgently investigate the frequent attacks on journalist Koba Partenadze and ensure his safety.

“According to Adjara Television journalist Koba Partenadze, he is attacked, threatened, and verbally and physically abused every evening in Batumi. The journalist posted a video on his personal Facebook page today, which shows young men using homophobic language and threatening to stab him. The journalist writes that he has several more videos depicting similar attacks.

A post on the journalist’s personal Facebook page shows that Koba Partenadze regularly appeals to the police for help, but the problem is not being resolved.

The attacks put the journalist in a difficult emotional state and prevent him from carrying out his professional activities. He writes: “I work every day, trying to do my job professionally and provide information to the public. I should not have to choose whether to go to work or stay home, because I may not be able to return.”

The journalist told Adjara Times that he believes that one of the motives for the attack may be his professional activities, since the attacker also referred to Adjara Television with obscene and offensive epithets.

The atmosphere of impunity prevailing in the country, the indifference and unprofessionalism of law enforcement agencies create an environment where citizens, including journalists, do not feel safe. People no longer have hope that the law will protect them.

The Charter calls on the Ministry of Internal Affairs to understand the gravity of the situation and the seriousness of the case, to show due attention to the victimized journalist, and to identify and punish the perpetrators before another tragedy occurs,” reads the statement.