Hunger Strike Highlights Journalist's Fight Against Georgian Government

Journalist Mzia Amaglobeli has become a symbol of resistance in Georgia, challenging the government's crackdown on free speech through her ongoing hunger strike while in pre-trial detention.

Mzia Amaglobeli, a prominent journalist in Georgia, has now entered the 25th day of her hunger strike while imprisoned. The founder of two influential news websites, she is standing firm in her refusal to submit to what she describes as an oppressive regime. Her health is reported to be deteriorating, prompting relatives to express serious concerns for her well-being; she was recently hospitalized for treatment.

At 49, Amaglobeli was taken into pre-trial detention after slapping a police chief during a protest in Batumi, highlighting widespread frustrations among Georgians over allegations of election fraud and the government's departure from democratic ideals and European integration. In her own words, she penned a heartfelt message from Rustavi prison, stating, "Today it is me, tomorrow it could be anyone who dares to dream of a just, democratic European Georgia."

Critics of Amaglobeli's detention, including the European Union's human rights commissioner, have labeled her pre-trial incarceration as unjustified. She faces a potential prison sentence of four to seven years if found guilty of assaulting the police officer. This incident is viewed as a reflection of the increasing authoritarianism under the Georgian Dream government.

Fourteen foreign embassies stationed in Georgia have appealed for her immediate release, calling attention to the chilling effects of such detentions on press freedom in the nation. Amaglobeli was arrested during a protest that has galvanized public sentiment against the ruling party, with many calling for not just her release but a more extensive examination of the treatment of dissent in the country. Her detention has sparked a wave of activism, as protesters display her image and demand her freedom in both Batumi and Tbilisi.

Civil rights advocates portray Amaglobeli as a dedicated journalist committed to upholding free expression amidst adversity. She co-founded Batumelebi in 2001, which has since become an important source of impartial news coverage in Georgia's polarized media landscape. Family members describe her as a diligent worker, dedicated to her craft even up to the moment of her arrest.

Amaglobeli's arrest stemmed from her participation in protests against the government's attempts to impose heavier restrictions on freedom of assembly that followed increasing discontent over police actions. Her act of solidarity during a protest, occurring only after a friend was arrested for putting up strike posters, quickly escalated into her own detention for "disobeying lawful orders," according to police reports.

Despite the serious nature of her charges, many see her as lionhearted.

As the protests continue, systemic abuses of power by police remain a significant concern, with organizations like Transparency International Georgia reporting widespread brutality against protesters. Activists are rallying not only around Amaglobeli but also in support of broader reforms that would safeguard freedom of the press and civil liberties throughout the country. An investigation into the possible abuse of power surrounding her case has been initiated by Georgia's independent Special Investigations Service, although critics remain skeptical of any meaningful accountability. Amaglobeli's next court appearance is scheduled for March 4, as tensions in Georgia continue to mount amidst calls for justice and reform.