Kakha Kaladze, Secretary General of the ruling Georgian Dream party and Mayor of Tbilisi, has voiced support for the ideas of a new initiative group created “to protect religious values.” According to him, the ruling team will discuss the proposals and decide on potential legislative changes.
Kaladze stated that while freedom of speech and expression is guaranteed in Georgia, it should not be used to offend religious feelings or be accompanied by profanity.
“This is an interesting initiative. A discussion will take place within our team, after which we will announce the relevant decision. Unquestionably, this matter must be regulated by law. We know that freedom of speech and expression is protected in the country, and everyone is free to express their position; however, freedom of expression does not grant the right to insult others or use profanity,” Kaladze said.
Earlier, another initiative group was established in Georgia, announcing its intention to seek tougher legislation to protect the church, religious shrines, historical heroes, and national values. According to its representatives, the proposed initiative draws an analogy with British legislation that provides for liability for insulting the royal family.