The human rights situation in Georgia is “catastrophic,” stated Marika Mikiashvili, a member of the Droa party, during her address at the UN Human Rights Council session in Geneva.
Speaking as a rapporteur for Liberal International (an international political organization uniting liberal parties and movements from around the world), Mikiashvili drew attention to “the number of political prisoners, violence against demonstrators, and the atmosphere of impunity” in the country, calling for “collective political efforts” against the ruling power with the participation of the UN.
“The human rights situation in Georgia in 2026 is a catastrophe, especially considering the speed of deterioration over the past 18 months and the fact that there are now more political prisoners per capita in Georgia than in Russia. This is a direct result of state violence against peaceful demonstrators, the widespread use of often unjustified draconian laws to suppress dissent, and attempts to exert financial pressure on opponents.
In recent months, credible allegations have emerged regarding the use of banned chemical substances against peaceful demonstrators, while the OSCE’s ‘Moscow Mechanism’ report from March 2026 points to ‘near-total impunity’ for crimes that often reach the level of torture.
Illegal and inhumane practices, such as strip-searching detainees or arresting people for protesting on sidewalks, have been widespread in Georgia this year. A new bill will soon regulate social media and target online dissent.
While Liberal International reaffirms its 2025 recommendations, it also notes the need for collective efforts by the UN to ensure the Georgian government’s compliance with international standards,” Mikiashvili stated.