The Public Defender of Georgia echoes the recent content spread in the public space, including humorous media platforms and programmes, in which a narrative reinforcing stigma and discriminatory stereotypes towards persons with disabilities is evident. As the Ombudsman notes, freedom of expression is one of the fundamental rights in a democratic society.

“At the same time, when exercising freedom of expression, it is important to take into account its possible social impact, especially when the object of expression is vulnerable groups who already face social barriers due to existing stigma and prejudice. The Public Defender points out that humor and media products play an important role in shaping public attitudes, perceptions and stereotypes. Accordingly, special importance is attached to the message that a specific expression creates for the general public and whether it contributes to the strengthening of attitudes that lead to the exclusion or discrimination of specific groups.

Overcoming the stigma against persons with disabilities and ensuring an equal social environment is an important obligation of the state and society. Accordingly, representatives of the media, entertainment industry and other public platforms have a special social responsibility to take into account the possible impact of the content they disseminate relating to those persons and groups who are historically or de facto in a vulnerable position.

Thus, the Public Defender once again calls on public figures and creators of media products to take into account the principles of human dignity, equality and inclusion when exercising creative freedom”, - reads the statement.