The situation of independent journalism in Georgia continues to worsen, which experts link to a broader process of the country's retreat from democratic norms. According to their assessment, pressure on the media is accompanied by systematic violations in other spheres of public and political life. In particular, serious restrictions on the right to peaceful assembly and protest are noted — participants in demonstrations face obstacles from authorities and security forces. At the same time, cases of persecution of opposition politicians are being documented, some of whom have ended up behind bars. This raises concerns among international observers about the politically motivated nature of such cases. A separate concern is raised by the declining independence of Georgia's judicial system. Experts point out that courts are increasingly perceived as an instrument of pressure on political opponents rather than as an independent arbiter in disputes between the state and society. The combination of these factors — repression against the press, restrictions on protest activity, persecution of the opposition, and erosion of judicial independence — creates a picture of systemic crisis in the country's democratic institutions. International human rights organizations urge Georgian authorities to halt this process and ensure compliance with basic civil freedoms, including freedom of speech and the right to a fair trial. The situation in Georgia is a cause for concern against the backdrop of the country's aspiration to European integration, as compliance with democratic standards and the rule of law is a key condition for rapprochement with the European Union.