Georgian Deputy Interior Minister discusses ongoing protests with CoE Commissioner for Human Rights

Aleksandre Darakhvelidze, the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of Georgia, on Friday met with Michael O'Flaherty, the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, to discuss ongoing protests in the country sparked by the Government's decision last year not to include European Union accession talks in its agenda until 2028.

Darakhvelidze provided the visiting official with an “in-depth information” on the protests, highlighting “illegal actions carried out by violent participants” and measures taken by law enforcement to “address the disruptions”, the Ministry said.  

The exchange also touched on recent legislative amendments in Georgia, with a focus on ensuring their alignment with international human rights standards, the press office added. 

In closing, Darakhvelidze thanked O'Flaherty for his visit, reaffirming that cooperation with the CoE and its institutions remained a “priority for Georgia”. 

Both sides expressed “mutual interest in further strengthening their cooperation” and continuing the exchange of information.