Civil Rights Defenders condemn attack on Pride Fest in Tbilisi and express deep concern about developments in Georgia during Pride Week.
Yesterday, July 8, Tbilisi Pride was forced to cancel its planned closed event Pride Fest due to the attack of threatening groups on the festival venue. Georgian authorities have a duty to protect human rights and freedom of assembly and expression guaranteed by the Constitution of Georgia.
“These developments are alarming for human rights, and they clearly indicate unfortunate backsliding in the democracy of Georgia. Freedom of assembly and manifestation should be guaranteed for the citizens of Georgia, and the LGBTI+ community should be able to conduct events and enjoy the same rights as all other citizens of the country”, says Gabrielle Gunnerberg, Global Department Director at Civil Rights Defenders.
Civil Rights Defenders express full solidarity with the LGBTI+ community in Georgia. We call on Georgian authorities to hold those responsible for the attack on Tbilisi Pride accountable and to ensure freedom of assembly and expression for all.
Source: CRD