“Everyone has the right to express their protest within the boundaries of the law, but if your representation in the protest is insufficient, you must respect the interests of the majority,” said GD Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze.
According to Kobakhidze, the current enforcement measures were insufficient, prompting the need for amendments to the Administrative Offences and Criminal Codes.
“In reality, everyone has the right to express their protest within the bounds of the law, but our current legislation, in line with international standards, states clearly: if you are not sufficiently represented in your protest, you must respect the interests of the majority. Among other provisions, our legislation has long stipulated that if the number of protesters is insufficient to block the street, they must respect other individuals and members of society and refrain from obstructing public pathways.
We have observed that fines have been in place up to now, but they have not been entirely effective. With this in mind, amendments are being made to both administrative and criminal legislation to ensure that the largest minority does not oppress the majority. This is a reflection of the fundamental principle of democracy,” said Irakli Kobakhidze.
The forthcoming amendments will address regulations concerning demonstrations and protests within the Administrative Offences and Criminal Codes.
