We believe that what we saw on Rustavi-2 on 7 July has nothing to do with freedom of speech and expression. The form and content of the statements made on the programme “P.S.” were unethical and unseemly. Hate speech and anti-state comments that are designed to incite violence constitute a grave threat to our country and our citizens.

Furthermore, the insulting and provocative statements made by the Rustavi-2 journalist exceed the internationally recognised professional boundaries, damaging Georgian media as a whole and discrediting our journalists.

Freedom of speech and expression is truly priceless, and it is unacceptable for such unseemly and damaging statements to be made in the name of these values. The Communications Commission firmly believes that those sections of the media and the wider public who view ethical, professional and responsible journalism as a high standard of freedom of expression will react to the incident on Rustavi-2 in an adequate and suitable manner.