Georgia: Assaults on Press Continue - Maka Chikhladze Attacked, Mariam Nikuradze Targeted
December 6, 2024 - Georgia, Tbilisi
Women Press Freedom strongly condemns the violent assault on TV Pirveli journalist Maka Chikhladze, who was attacked live on air by multiple masked men reportedly tied to the Georgian government. These masked men have been violently beating protesters and journalists at demonstrations in Tbilisi for over a week, operating with apparent impunity. On December 6, 2024, Maka’s investigation into their activities and potential government ties seems to have made her a target—a brazen and alarming attack on press freedom. This assault is the latest in a troubling pattern of escalating violence against journalists in Georgia amid ongoing protests.
OC Media’s Mariam Nikuradze was also reportedly listed on an unconfirmed arrest warrant—a clear attempt to silence critical voices. These incidents reveal a dangerous effort to suppress dissent and shield those in power from accountability.
We demand the Georgian government to put an end to this unacceptable targeting of journalists. Attacks and intimidation threaten not only the free press but also the future of democracy in Georgia. The world is watching, and history will judge those who allow such actions to continue unchecked. We stand in solidarity with Maka Chikhladze, Mariam Nikuradze, and all journalists risking their safety to report the truth.
#Georgia: Women Press Freedom strongly condemns the violent assault on @TvPirveli journalist #MakaChikhladze, who was attacked live on air by multiple masked men reportedly tied to the Georgian government. These masked men have been violently beating protesters and journalists at… pic.twitter.com/QamHdimRx9
— #WomenInJournalism (@CFWIJ) December 7, 2024
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