European Film Academy Demands Immediate Release of Georgian Actor Andro Chichinadze

14 December 2024 | Source

Georgian actor Andro Chichinadze. Photo: EFA

The European Film Academy has urged the Georgian government to release actor Andro Chichinadze, arrested on November 5 during public protests. Chichinadze faces charges of inciting violence, raising concerns about the suppression of free expression. The Academy highlights fears for his well-being and calls on cultural institutions worldwide to support his release

European Film Awards

The European Film Academy has issued a public statement calling for the immediate and unconditional release of 28-year-old Georgian film and theatre actor Andro Chichinadze, who was arrested on November 5 alongside four other individuals during public protests in Georgia.

Chichinadze and his co-detainees face allegations of “organizing, leading, participating in, and publicly calling for violent actions.” However, human rights advocates and cultural organizations have raised concerns that these charges may be part of a broader governmental effort to suppress dissent and intimidate public voices.

The Academy has expressed particular concern over Chichinadze’s physical and mental well-being while in custody, emphasizing that the situation underscores broader issues surrounding freedom of expression and the safety of artists in Georgia. “We encourage all film and culture institutions around the world to join us in calling for Andro Chichinadze’s immediate and unconditional release,” read their statement.

The actor’s arrest has sparked outrage among international cultural and human rights organizations, amplifying fears that Georgia’s government is increasingly targeting artists and public figures as part of a crackdown on peaceful protest.

This incident has highlighted ongoing challenges to civil liberties in the region and intensified calls for solidarity among cultural institutions worldwide to protect the freedom and safety of artists.

What You Need to Know:

Who: Andro Chichinadze, a 28-year-old Georgian actor active in film and theatre.
What Happened: Arrested on November 5, 2024, alongside four others during public protests in Georgia, accused of inciting violence.
Why It Matters: The arrest has raised significant concerns about freedom of expression, artistic safety, and government suppression of dissent.
Call to Action: The European Film Academy and other cultural institutions are advocating for Chichinadze’s immediate release.