“Atlantic Council” [AC] echoes the investigative actions conducted by the investigative service of the Ministry of Finance of Georgia and expresses “deep concern”.

“The AC is deeply concerned about this event and its impact on the work of our employees shortly before the Georgian elections.

Our Georgian colleagues, Sofo Gelava and Eto Buziashvili, are engaged in independent, nonpartisan work aimed at protecting and strengthening democracies from those who undermine them in online spaces, including research related to foreign influence efforts, the targeting of marginalized groups, and other harm.

We trust that the Georgian authorities will shed more light on their actions, ensure the safety and security of our employees, return their property, and allow them to continue to contribute to Georgia’s democracy. The AC has long been a supporter of democratic and independent Georgia and its aspirations to join the institutions of the transatlantic community.

The Digital Expertise Research Lab publishes research that emphasizes the importance of discourse and objective information as the foundation of free, open, and democratic nations. The AC will continue its work in Georgia in the spirit of its mission to shape the global future with partners and allies. We will continue to carefully monitor the situation”, - reads the statement.