UK Minister of State Stephen Doughty has commended Georgian Young Lawyers Association (GYLA) for its efforts to defend democracy and human rights in Georgia during growing international concerns over the country’s democratic issues.
“I congratulate the Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association on winning the prestigious Democracy Defender Award gifted by the UK and seven OSCE partners,” Doughty said on April 8. “The GYLA is providing essential support to human rights activists and civil society organisations in Georgia who are coming under increasing pressure from repressive legislation.”
Doughty’s statement amid such political tensions in Georgia came right on time as the ruling party is being heavily criticized over alleged political repression. “After months of democratic backsliding, arbitrary arrests, and the use of excessive force against protestors, politicians and journalists, Georgian Dream has shown no indication they will return to their European path and uphold the democratic wishes of its own electorate,” he warned.
Calling for a change in course, the Minister urged Georgian authorities to “reverse this isolationist behaviour” and reaffirmed support for those defending civic freedoms. “I thank the GYLA for their important work protecting the fundamental rights of the Georgian people.”
