“Such actions are clearly aimed at suppressing and ultimately eradicating the opposition we continue to uphold against Russia, particularly concerning Russia's encroachment upon Georgian culture and copyright. Presently, Georgian culture is within Russia’s grasp - a widely acknowledged and openly acknowledged reality. Unsatisfied with this status quo, they seek to eliminate any obstacles,” says Giga Kobaladze, Chairman of the Georgian Copyright Association (GCA), following an inquiry by the investigative service.
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According to the Ministry of Finance's investigative service, an investigation has been initiated against Giga Kobaladze, Chairman of the NNLE Copyright Association of Georgia, following a collective complaint lodged by authors and performers regarding the possible misappropriation of substantial funds belonging to them. The investigative service has seized documentation from the premises of the Copyright Association.
“Giga has not misappropriated a single cent, regardless of the currency, nor has he squandered any funds. On the contrary, he has diligently compensated all authors and performers, including those who have filed complaints. They should seek sound legal counsel,” asserted Malkhaz Salakaia, legal representative of Giga Kobaladze.
Established in 1999 by Georgian authors, the Copyright Association primarily functions to grant usage permissions for copyrighted materials, collect royalties, and distribute them globally. Affiliated with the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers, the GCA has entered into cooperative agreements with 253 international organizations. Giga Kobaladze has served as its leader since 2011.
In 2019, a similarly purposed organization, the Association of Copyright Holders of Georgia, known as GERA, was founded in Georgia, with reported ties to Russia. Some of GERA’s founders have openly expressed sympathy towards the Russian Federation.
Following legislative amendments introduced by the Georgian Dream party, GERA gained control over copyright management in Georgia in December 2023.
In a 2023 interview with Studio Monitor, Giga Kobaladze suggested that “the intent behind this move is for Russia to not only assert its dominance in the realm of copyright but also to exert influence over artistic circles, reminiscent of the communist era when Russia created the so-called Red Intelligence, using it as a propaganda tool for indoctrination. Such maneuvers persist today as Russia seeks to establish a foothold in Georgia.”
