Georgian PM says BBC must respond or face UK, international legal action

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Thursday said his Government had filed a complaint against the BBC and was awaiting their response, adding that “if the broadcaster does not respond appropriately, the case will continue both with the UK regulatory authorities and, if necessary, in international courts”.

In his interview with Imedi TV, Kobakhidze noted that the Georgian Government would use every available mechanism to defend the truth on this matter.

“What does not exist in reality cannot be presented as such. Accordingly, we have filed a lawsuit against the BBC and are awaiting its response. If their response is inadequate, we will continue the dispute with the British regulator and are also prepared to take the case to international courts. We will use all mechanisms to protect the truth on this matter”, he said.

“Everyone knows how the process unfolded. Back in 2009, certain substances were purchased, some of which were later banned; however, Camite was never purchased. Some substances were later prohibited and were not used under our Government. What was stated in the BBC report was outright falsehood. What was most shameful is that while the broadcaster itself partially adhered to journalistic standards by speaking in terms of assumptions, the information published on the website presented the same claims as established facts”, the PM continued.

Kobakhidze concluded by emphasising that this clearly showed that they knowingly resorted to falsehood.

“This was not an accidental mistake; it was a deliberate lie, which the BBC - a once highly reputable television broadcaster - unfortunately chose to make”, he said.

The ruling Georgian Dream party filed an official complaint with the BBC. The complaint demanded the removal of the BBC film and related materials from relevant platforms, which alleged that the ruling Georgian Dream party used chemical weapons dating back to World War I during a protest rally in 2024, as well as a public and clear apology from the BBC.

The State Security Service of Georgia has rejected the allegations, stating that the Ministry of Internal Affairs did not use “Camite” during protest dispersals and that Georgia has never possessed or acquired the substance.