The Parliament of Georgia will implement a yellow-level security protocol starting November 26, which will remain in effect until further notice. During this period, representatives of online media will not be permitted to work within the legislative building. This week, Georgian Dream plans to discuss the issue of expressing confidence in the newly composed government. Additionally, a plenary session of the illegitimate parliament is scheduled for November 26.
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As per a statement from the illegitimate parliament, the purpose of the restrictions is to ensure a safe and functional working environment within the building.
"In accordance with Order N1/259/23, issued on September 4, 2023, by the Chairman of the Parliament of Georgia regarding the approval of security rules for the Parliament's Palace, the yellow level of security will be in effect from November 26 until further notice. During this time, visitors will be restricted from entering the Parliament's Palace.
Only individuals invited by the relevant structural units will be allowed to attend planned parliamentary events, including committee and plenary sessions. Additionally, no more than two accredited teams of TV broadcasters or telemedia representatives from each outlet will be permitted in the building until the conclusion of parliamentary events," the statement reads.
Online media journalists were barred from entering the parliament building even today, November 25, when Georgian Dream convened for the first session of the 11th convocation, recognizing the parliament's authority as a single party in violation of the Georgian constitution. According to Shalva Papuashvili, the chairman of the illegitimate parliament, "These measures are intended to ensure the orderly conduct of the session, including uninterrupted work for the media."
"You probably remember the first session of 2020. At that time, the U.S. ambassador was almost crushed against the wall by journalists. So, I believe this format creates a more effective working environment," Papuashvili stated.
Journalists from online media outlets also faced restrictions in the spring, when Georgian Dream reintroduced and passed the Russian-inspired law on so-called foreign agents.
On April 16, editors from the online publications Publica, Georgian News/Mtis Ambebi, Netgazeti, Studio Monitori, and the executive director of the Charter of Journalistic Ethics of Georgia submitted a complaint to the Public Defender, Levan Ioseliani, requesting a determination of discrimination and its elimination. Seven months have passed since the complaint was filed, but Ioseliani has yet to issue a decision. This is despite the rule stipulating that "the study of the case must be completed within a reasonable time after its transfer, but no later than 90 calendar days." Notably, the Public Defender attended the first session of the illegitimate parliament on November 25.
