Media Situation In Georgia And Leverages Of Political Pressure

MEDIA SITUATION IN GEORGIA AND LEVERAGES OF POLITICAL PRESSURE (RUSTAVI 2 CASE) Mrs. Rusudan Vashakidze, Ph.D in Journalism, Associate Professor, The University of Georgia, Georgia Abstract Right after 2012 parliamentary elections in Georgia when the new... More

MEDIA SITUATION IN GEORGIA AND LEVERAGES OF POLITICAL PRESSURE (RUSTAVI 2 CASE) Mrs. Rusudan Vashakidze, Ph.D in Journalism, Associate Professor, The University of Georgia, Georgia Abstract Right after 2012 parliamentary elections in Georgia when the new political team came to power they started the systematic and consistent campaign against Free Media, in particular against Rustavi 2 Broadcasting Company. The ultimate goal of this campaign was to change the company`s editorial policy and its influence as a leading media outlet in the country through intimidation of the company`s employees and management and curtailing its financial independence. There were attempts to demoralize the journalists and the staff. Rustavi 2's General Director Nika Gvaramia was arrested on absurd charges and kept in detention for several days. Offices of company`s top executives were under video and audio surveillance. The political tools government authorities use against independent media: 1. Financial re Less