The Public Defender of Georgia echoes the events developed in the vicinity of the Parliament and the Administration of the Government of Georgia.

The situation at the rally periodically become tense, during which law enforcement officers use special equipment, inter alia, they used the so-called pepper spray several times. Footage also show alleged excessive use of force by law enforcement officers. Several journalists were reportedly injured.

Based on the information available at this stage and according to the initial assessment, the Public Defender notes that the use of any kind of force or special equipment by law enforcement officers must meet the strict test of necessity and proportionality. It is not allowed to use special equipment (including the so-called pepper spray) against protesters into their face. The use of any special equipment must be preceded by a warning. Protesters should be given a reasonable amount of time to comply with the lawful demands of the police. It is also important not to interfere with journalists' activities and to ensure their safety.

The Public Defender of Georgia urges the law enforcement bodies not to go beyond the scope of legislation, not to use force against peaceful participants in the assembly and not to prevent them from enjoying their rights guaranteed by the Constitution.

The Public Defender also calls on the participants and organizers of the assembly not to go beyond the scope of the peaceful assembly.

In addition, the Public Defender calls on the Special Investigative Service to examine the cases of excessive force and to inform the public about the results.