Georgian Vice PM announces special unit on hate speech, denies any free speech restrictions

While informing the public about the creation of a special unit within the ministry of internal affairs, Mamuka Mdinaradze, the Georgian vice prime minister and state minister for coordination of law enforcement agencies, emphasised that the purpose of this decision was not to restrict freedom of opinion or expression in any form.

In his remarks, Mdinaradze noted that the unit’s primary function would be the systematic monitoring of hate speech, offensive campaigns, and aggressive communication in the public sphere, as well as ensuring an appropriate legal response.

He further highlighted that free discussion and diversity of opinions are the foundations of a democratic state, although this should not serve as justification for communication that fuels confrontation within society.

“A democratic state is founded precisely on free discussion and diversity of opinions. At the same time, however, this should not become grounds for justifying violent, offensive, or socially divisive communication. A democratic state requires differing opinions and critical discussion, while there are also minimum standards that society should agree upon, including mutual respect and the unacceptability of communication that incites hostility, hatred, public tension, and extreme polarisation”, Mdinaradze said.

He added that the new unit will ensure continuous monitoring and the effective use of legal mechanisms provided by law, as the state is obligated to protect the public sphere from artificially intensified polarisation.

“As you know, Parliament has already adopted the relevant legislative framework in this direction. However, legislation alone is not enough, and its effective and consistent enforcement is fundamentally important. Therefore, in response to current challenges, we are strengthening the institutional capabilities of the Ministry of Internal Affairs - the new unit will ensure continuous monitoring and the effective use of mechanisms provided for by law”, he said.

“The state is obliged to protect the public sphere from destructive and artificially deepened polarisation. Accordingly, Georgia’s law enforcement system will ensure the establishment of standards and rules that will strengthen public stability, mutual respect, and responsible public communication”, Mdinaradze concluded.