In its latest urgent action letter, the Thompson Rivers University Students’ Union called on the Prosecutor General of Georgia to ensure detained journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli receives immediate specialist medical care. The letter also urges the suspension of police officers implicated in her ill-treatment until a full and independent investigation is completed.
“It was important to act because this case shows how fragile basic rights become when power goes unchecked.” says Sigourne Tran, Member-at-Large, Equity Committee.
Mzia Amaghlobeli, co-founder of Batumelebi and Netgazeti, was arrested twice on January 11, 2025, during peaceful protests in Batumi. She faced verbal abuse, threats, and denial of basic rights while in custody, and now risks permanent blindness because prison authorities have refused to transfer her to a specialist clinic despite urgent medical need. The denial of essential healthcare in detention violates both Georgia’s Constitution and international human rights standards.
Her case is not isolated. Women protesters and activists in Georgia often face targeted mistreatment and gender-based reprisals, raising serious concerns that the criminal justice system is being used to punish peaceful dissent in violation of both Georgia’s Constitution and its international human rights obligations.
“This case also shows how women who protest or speak out are especially targeted. No one should face abuse or denial of care simply because of their gender or their voice,” said Tran.
We hope the Prosecutor General will act swiftly to ensure Ms. Amaghlobeli’s rights are protected in line with Georgia’s constitutional and international human rights commitments.
For More Information
The Amnesty Urgent Actions Program allows the Union to take action regarding international human rights injustices that matter to students. Click this link to see injustices we have addressed previously, and for further information about this issue or to see a copy of the letter, contact the Equity Coordinator below.