Mzia Amaglobeli, founder of Batumelebi and Netgazeti, said the Sakharov Prize will be especially meaningful if all those involved in the struggle for justice—colleagues, prisoners of conscience, and citizens—consider it their own.
In a letter published by Batumelebi, Amaglobeli emphasized that the award is a symbol of hope and perseverance, rather than a moment for sentimentality. “I believe now is not the time for sentiments, and the fight only ends when we win. In this struggle, we should not look for enemies within; the only enemy is Russia and those who serve it,” she wrote.
Reflecting on her early work, Amaglobeli recalled founding Batumelebi with her colleague Eter amid the presence of Russian tanks in Adjara, highlighting the resilience that has guided their mission. She noted that the Sakharov Prize gains its full significance if young activists, journalists, and those facing arrests and hardships view it as a recognition of their own sacrifices.
“If this award gives them hope that their struggle will end in victory, then all of this has meaning. Now, the most important thing is to carry the voice of this struggle everywhere. Students, lecturers, especially those studying abroad, everyone must convey their voice to their professors, friends, acquaintances, and colleagues about how people fight on Rustaveli Avenue every day. Our voice must be heard everywhere outside the country,” Amaglobeli wrote.
She concluded by emphasizing that the prize belongs to her colleagues and the broader movement, urging the public to amplify their message internationally.
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