In a shocking incident that has sent ripples through the civil society of Georgia, prominent civil activist Zuka Berdzenishvili was attacked and beaten by unknown assailants. The attack took place on June 11, 2024, near Berdzenishvili’s residence in Tbilisi. According to reports, three attackers ambushed Berdzenishvili, leaving him with head and facial injuries. The incident has sparked outrage among activists and citizens, who are calling for a thorough investigation and justice for Berdzenishvili.
The Incident and Immediate Reactions
The attack on Zuka Berdzenishvili occurred shortly after he was publicly condemned by the Speaker of Parliament, Shalva Papuashvili. Papuashvili had accused Berdzenishvili and other activists of engaging in a “campaign of terror” against MPs. This public condemnation is believed to have incited the attack on Berdzenishvili. The activist was ambushed by three unknown assailants who were waiting for him near his home. They attacked him from behind, causing significant injuries to his head and face.
The news of the attack quickly spread on social media, with fellow activists and citizens expressing their shock and anger. Civil activist Salome Barker Nikoleishvili was among the first to disseminate information about the attack. She described the attackers as “outraged citizens” who had been waiting in a car before ambushing Berdzenishvili. The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of civil activists in Georgia and the increasing hostility they face.
Calls for Justice and Government Response
In the wake of the attack, there have been widespread calls for justice and accountability. Activists and citizens are demanding a thorough investigation into the incident and the prosecution of those responsible. The Georgian Interior Ministry has launched an investigation into the attack, but many are skeptical about the outcome. There is a growing sentiment that the government is not doing enough to protect civil activists and ensure their safety.
The attack on Berdzenishvili has also drawn international attention. Human rights organizations and foreign governments have condemned the attack and called on the Georgian authorities to take immediate action. The incident is seen as part of a broader pattern of repression against government critics and civil society members in Georgia. The international community is closely monitoring the situation and urging the Georgian government to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of its citizens.
The Broader Context of Repression
The attack on Zuka Berdzenishvili is not an isolated incident. It is part of a broader pattern of repression against civil activists and government critics in Georgia. Over the past few months, there have been numerous reports of activists being targeted, harassed, and attacked. This has created a climate of fear and intimidation, making it increasingly difficult for civil society to operate freely.
The Georgian government’s recent actions, including the passage of the controversial “foreign-agent” law, have further exacerbated the situation. The law requires civil society and media organizations that receive more than 20 percent of their funding from foreign sources to register and submit to government oversight. Critics argue that the law is designed to stifle dissent and silence independent voices. The attack on Berdzenishvili is seen as a direct consequence of this repressive environment.
As the investigation into the attack continues, the focus remains on ensuring justice for Zuka Berdzenishvili and addressing the broader issues of repression and human rights violations in Georgia. The incident has highlighted the urgent need for greater protection of civil activists and a commitment to upholding democratic values and principles.
