In Georgia, approximately 60 cases of attacks on journalists, threats, and obstruction of their professional activities were recorded during the first four months of 2026, according to a report by Transparency International (TI).
The vast majority of crimes against media representatives remain unsolved, with perpetrators not held accountable. As noted in the report, this creates an atmosphere of impunity and encourages the recurrence of such incidents.
Independent Georgian media mark World Press Freedom Day on May 3 amid mounting pressure. Despite limited resources and political constraints, critical media outlets continue their work, fulfilling their primary function of informing the public, TI stated.
The study identifies three key areas of pressure on the media:
- threats, physical violence, and obstruction of journalists’ work;
- the use of the judicial and law enforcement systems against the media;
- pressure from regulatory bodies.
Specifically, the report documents instances of threats against journalists following the publication of critical reports, the seizure of equipment, the deletion of footage, and restrictions on the work of film crews on the ground.
Particular attention is paid to the use of judicial mechanisms. In recent months, administrative cases have been repeatedly brought against journalists, including charges of “blocking the road” while performing their professional duties.
Furthermore, there have been recorded instances of heavy fines, arrests, and the freezing of journalists’ bank accounts. Media representatives also face defamation lawsuits (claims for the protection of honor and dignity), which experts believe may constitute a form of pressure and an attempt to restrict freedom of speech.
The activities of the national communications regulator also raise serious concerns. According to TI, monitoring of content on critical television channels has intensified, and warnings for using specific terminology on air have become more frequent.
Experts believe such measures could lead to increased self-censorship and the erosion of editorial independence.
Transparency International emphasizes that pressure on independent media is accompanied by systemic rhetoric from government officials and smear campaigns aimed at discrediting journalists.
According to TI’s assessment, the current situation indicates the emergence of an increasingly hostile environment for independent journalism.
Experts warn that if this trend continues, it could lead to a further deterioration of press freedom in the country and the weakening of democratic institutions.