BackTogether with the European Network of National Human Rights Institutions (ENNHRI), the European Network of Equality Bodies (EQUINET), and the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), the International Ombudsman Institute (IOI) issued a statement to reiterate the full support to the Public Defender (Ombudsman) in its work to promote and protect human rights and equality in Georgia.
In this joint statement (see further down below), we express serious concern that the staff and leadership of the Georgian Public Defender (Ombudsman), as well as experts cooperating with them, have faced verbal attacks and threats due to the institution’s recent human rights work. These continued verbal attacks, as well as undue interference or threats regarding the discharge of the institution’s broad mandate, contribute to a deteriorating environment for the Public Defender to carry out its work effectively and independently.
The Public Defender is a highly respected institution within the broader international human rights community and a long-standing and highly valued member of ENNHRI, EQUINET, GANHRI, and the IOI. In this joint statement, we call on the Georgian Government and Parliament to uphold the international principles calling for the protection of institutions, such as the Georgian Public Defender, against intimidation, threats or any actions that may negatively impact on their independence and effectiveness.
