A new initiative group has been formed in Georgia, seeking to establish a legal framework for the protection of Georgian identity, national unity, and civil peace. The group includes actor Giorgi Shanidze, director Giorgi Sikharulidze, and director of the Batumi Theatre Konstantin (Kote) Mzhavia.
Members of the initiative stated that starting today, they are launching consultations with government representatives, lawyers, historians, cultural and sports figures, and other public groups to prepare a corresponding legislative initiative.
According to initiative group member Giorgi Shanidze, freedom of expression is a paramount value, but it should not be used as a tool to insult the country’s historical, cultural, and spiritual foundations.
The authors of the initiative also contend that the actions of certain groups operating “on instructions from abroad” are heightening social tension and could lead to civil confrontation. They believe that further escalation can be prevented through a legal resolution of the situation.
The initiative group urged the Georgian authorities, parliament, and relevant state agencies to take an active part in preparing the legislative amendments.