Shevardnadze Admits in Some Cases Government Cannot Prevent Intolerance

(Tbilisi, Civil Georgia, July 29, 2002) – “In Georgia every one enjoys with freedom of speech, but unfortunately in some cases government cannot prevent violent attacks against the minorities,” President Shevardnadze stated today in his radiobroadcast.

Georgian President commented on declaration of the European Union concerning the recent attack on the human rights advocacy NGO Liberty Institute and other incidents.

“All Georgian citizens have the legitimate right to engage in peaceful activities, without fear of criminal and violent acts. Failure to improve the current security environment and consolidate the rule of law will negatively influence both the political and economic situation in Georgia,” the UE declaration states.