The Public Defender of Georgia is closely monitoring the protests being held in Tbilisi and other cities of Georgia.

According to the Public Defender of Georgia, the protests are currently peaceful and there is no legal grounds for interfering with freedom of assembly.

Of particular note is the special concentration of protesters and police forces on Chichinadze Street in Tbilisi. It is important for the law enforcement agencies to take into account that when a specific place/institution is the object of protest or when expressing views at a specific location is the most effective way to reach the addressee of the opinion or protest, the relevant agencies must demonstrate an appropriate degree of tolerance. This standard must be observed in all cases, unless there is a reason to impose a specific restriction.

The Public Defender calls on the Ministry of Internal Affairs not to interfere with the exercise of freedom of assembly during the protests ongoing across the country, and to ensure a safe working environment for journalists. The Public Defender also calls on the participants in the protests to continue their protest peacefully.