GYLA – The Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights has accepted for review a case concerning freedom of expression in the online space

Based on an application by GYLA, the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights has accepted for review the case of Irakli Miladze, which concerns freedom of expression in the online space, according to the Georgian Young Lawyers' Association (GYLA).

As GYLA explains, this is the second case involving Georgia to be referred to the Grand Chamber at the applicant's request; GYLA notes that the first case concerned a complaint filed by GYLA and partner organizations regarding the operation to disperse the June 20 rally.

"GYLA appealed the case to the Grand Chamber in August 2026. The case concerns the prosecution of an individual (Irakli Miladze) under the Code of Administrative Offenses due to views expressed on social media (TikTok).

It is worth noting that a decision by the Court’s Fourth Section (May 19, 2026) found no violation of the Convention in the case. However, shortly after that decision, a so-called 'censorship division' subordinate to the Ministry of Internal Affairs was established and became operational; it initiates administrative proceedings against individuals based on opinions expressed on social media.

GYLA will provide the public with further information regarding the next procedural steps in the coming days.

GYLA continues to utilize international legal mechanisms, particularly in cases involving practices of pressure exerted against the public amidst the ongoing human rights crisis," reads the statement issued by GYLA.

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