IPA - International Publishers Association Inc.

10/25/2025 | News release | Distributed by Public on 10/25/2025 06:41

Georgia: IPA concern at first publisher arrested during Tbilisi demonstrations

Georgia: IPA concern at first publisher arrested during Tbilisi demonstrations

  • IPA Editor
  • October 25, 2025
The IPA is aware of the arrest and sentencing of Georgian publisher Zviad Kvaratskhelia (Intelekti Publishing) to 3 days in prison for blocking Rustaveli Avenue. Road blocking is in contravention of a recent amendment to the Administrative Code of Georgia that made road-blocking and covering one's face punishable by up to 15 days in detention.

Kristenn Einarsson, Chair of the IPA's Freedom to Publish Committee said: While it does not seem that Zviad Kvaratskhelia's arrest was related to his publishing activity, we are concerned about the apparent restrictions on the freedom of assembly developing in Georgia and how they might lead to restrictions on freedom of expression.

The IPA supports the statement by the Georgian Book Association and their call for Zviad Kvaratskhelia's release. Kvaratskhelia was sentenced to 3 days in prison during the course of Friday night.

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