Renew Europe strongly condemned the arrest and reported torture of Elene Khoshtaria, Georgian opposition leader and a key advocate for democracy and European integration.
The leader of ALDE Party member Droa! in Georgia, Khoshtaria was arrested on 29 March and later released but claimed to suffer injuries and degrading treatment while in detention.
The Group stands in full solidarity with Khoshtaria and all those in Georgia fighting for a democratic and European future and urges the Georgian authorities to respect fundamental rights, ensure Khoshtaria’s safety, and put an end to political persecution.
Furthermore, Renew Europe calls on the EU and the international community to closely monitor the situation in Georgia and take all necessary measures to support democratic governance and human rights in the country.
“It is outrageous how the opposition is being violated against in Georgia. Harassment, intimidation, violence - the list goes on and on. I wish strength to the Georgian opposition to continue their fight for a European, free and democratic Georgia,” said Urmas Paet MEP (Reformierakond, EE), Renew Europe spokesperson for Georgia.
"The reports of Elene Khoshtaria’s mistreatment are shocking and unacceptable. Georgia’s future lies in democracy, not repression. We call on the EU to take a firm stance against this blatant violation of human rights,” added Nathalie Loiseau MEP, Chair of the European Parliament Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield.