The Public Defender of Georgia condemns the discriminatory statements on female representatives of the opposition party, Tina Bokuchava and Ana Tsitlidze, posted by Tamaz Patsatsia, Deputy Chairperson of the Zugdidi City Council, on the social network.

The Public Defender considers that Tamaz Patsatsia's statements were of sexist content, as they had sexual connotation and were aimed at insulting and humiliating female politicians and creating an unhealthy, unequal political environment.

Under circumstances when women's equality and equal participation in the decision-making process remain one of the challenges, creation of a hostile environment for women involved in political and public life serves as a barrier to their full, free and safe participation in political processes.

The Public Defender considers that the statements containing discriminatory, sexist and hate speech against female politicians degrade the importance of women's participation in the decision-making process and enhance wrong and humiliating stereotypes about the women’s role. All of this doubles the risks of various forms of discrimination against women. Individuals involved in the political process should be aware that they have a special responsibility in the process of achieving equality, as their views can influence the formation of public opinion.

Taking into account the above-mentioned, the Public Defender urges Tamaz Patsatsia to refrain from making discriminatory statements and to conduct his activities in accordance with the principles of equality. In addition, according to the Public Defender, it is important that the Zugdidi City Council take effective steps to promote the protection of gender equality principles and raise the awareness of members and other employees of the City Council on equality issues.