Statement of Human Rights Center about the turmoil and acts of violence in the center of Tbilisi

Human Rights Center expresses its deep concern  about the  turmoil and facts of violence in the center of Tbilisi on May 17th.  Unfortunately, the government could not ensure order and protection of citizens despite of the fact that, on previous days Prime-Minister and Minister of  Internal Affairs gave guarantee to the society that  they would protect participants of  the  rally  celebrating international Day against Homophobia, as well as  participants of the opposite assempbly.   

Law enforcment bodies  could not calm down the angry citizens who  physically and verbally offended not only LGBT activists and their supporters,  but also journalists, policemen, Public Defender, representatives of NGOs and other organizations who did  not represent  any side of the conflict. They were just  exercising their work duties on the place. Policemen and journalists were harmed by the stones and other things  thrown at them. 

Aggressive people suppressed the rally celebrating the international Day against Homophobia  and damaged public – municipal transport they thought participants of the rally were in. 

Human Rights Center insists that  law enforcement agencies  investigate  and punish  citizens who personally participated in violence and breached public order. 

Besides,  high -  ranking  officials of Ministry of Internal Affairs who were obliged to protect the security and public order and did not fulfill their obligations  should be held responsible.  

Human Rights Center