Georgian Public Broadcaster [GPB] releases a statement and “expresses concern over systematic attacks, attempts to interfere with editorial independence”.

“The GPB expresses concern about various parties’ systematic attacks against First Channel, attempts to interfere with editorial independence, and obstruction of independent journalistic activities amid the tense situation in the country.

The GPB carries out its activities according to legally established content obligations. It serves the entire society, fully adhering to journalistic ethics norms objectively and considering principles of transparency, fairness, and impartiality, which was confirmed by the OSCE/ODIHR conclusion.

Unfortunately, former President of Georgia Salome Zoubichvili shows particular aggression towards the GPB, deliberately spreading disinformation to discredit the Channel, including in important spaces such as the European Parliament. Not to mention her threats against the Channel and calls for its punishment, which is beyond any standard of media relations.

Such attacks from politicians encourage and incite certain social groups and private individuals to consider it legitimate to interfere in media activities, insult GPB journalists and employees, engage in bullying, use hate speech against them.

We call on all parties, especially politicians, to maintain professionalism and professional standards during this difficult time. It is alarming to see attempts to pressure independent media through disinformation and intimidate journalists.

The GPB belongs to the entire society; no political or social group has the right to monopolize it or close it off to others.

Different ideas and opinions are voiced here, including those that clearly cannot be acceptable and appealing to everyone, which should be understood by all, as this is the purpose of the GPB. Therefore, bullying of GPB employees is unacceptable, damages the democratic process. Different opinions and ideas should be countered with opinions and ideas, not by violating journalists’ dignity.

We would also like to inform the public that from 13 January, the GPB will resume prime-time broadcasting, and as always, it will be dedicated to all parties, including those with different stances. We will try our best to allocate time to all important topics to bring positions closer together rather than deepen radicalization”, - reads the statement.