NGOs Demand Resignation of Human Rights Committee Chair

Non-Governmental organizations (NGOs) based in Georgia demand the resignation of Sopio Kiladze, the Chair of Parliament’s Human Rights and Civil Integration Committee, saying she does not properly fulfill her duties.

The organizations say protection of fundamental human rights, including the rights of vulnerable groups, and close cooperation with human rights NGOs should be the starting point for the Parliamentary Human Rights Committee in the process of consideration of bills and other matters that fall within the scope of Parliament’s competencies.

In addition, the NGOs think that for successful performance of the Human Rights and Civil Integration Committee, it is crucial that the chairperson fully understands her role and functions and conducts her work accordingly.

The non-governmental sector says it is important that every citizen of Georgia feels that the committee chairperson is protecting their rights and not on the contrary.

“Remarks and initiatives of the Chairperson of the Human Rights and Civil Integration Committee of the 9th Parliament on freedom of expression, rights of minorities and other rights have triggered protest of certain civil society groups, including NGOs,” the statement, released on May 1, reads, adding Kiladze’s statements on a humane drug policy initiatives and terminology that she has used during public discussions are not appropriate.

“Her approach towards vulnerable groups is inconsistent with the officially declared policy of the state and sometimes runs against it; it is discriminatory and homophobic and aims to justify oppression of certain groups. Overall, the Chairperson’s activities and public statements suggest that her personal approach towards fundamental human rights is completely inconsistent with her current office,” the NGOs say.

Around 30 signatory organizations believe that the Chairperson of the Human Rights and Civil Integration Committee should resign and "an individual with the correct vision about fundamental human rights, who will aim to protect human rights in Georgia, should be chosen to replace her."

By Thea Morrison