Distinguished Ambassadors, Members of the Diplomatic Corps, Media Managers, Journalists, Friends,

It is both a pleasure and an honour to welcome you all today as we gather to celebrate the 13th edition of the European Prize for Journalism.

This event is not merely an awards ceremony—it is a tribute to the fundamental role that journalists play in upholding democracy, defending human rights, and bringing truth to the public.

However, we cannot ignore the stark reality in which this celebration takes place. The circumstances in Georgia today are extremely dire for journalists. The environment is increasingly hostile, and the threats and violence they face are growing by the day. This is not the time for celebration, yet it is precisely in moments like these that we must stand firm in our duty to honour and defend independent journalism.

We are all witnessing the rapid and alarming deterioration of press freedom in Georgia. Journalists are being intimidated, beaten, and imprisoned. And for what crime? For sharing the truth. For being the voice of those who have been silenced. For exposing human rights violations. For acting as one of the pillars of democracy.

What we see today is an effort by to silence dissident voices while providing impunity to those who commit violence against journalists. This is unacceptable. This cannot be happening in a country that aspires to join the European Union.

In these troubling times, we must express our deepest admiration and unwavering solidarity with the journalists, cameramen and women, photographers, and media managers who continue their work despite the mounting dangers. They are the frontline defenders of democracy, and their courage must be met with our full support. This is not tolerable. This is not the Georgia we believe in.

Tonight, I would like to say a few words about one of them in particular: Mzia Amaghlobeli. Mzia has been on a hunger strike for 37 consecutive days—an act of extraordinary bravery and determination. She has become a symbol of journalistic courage, and of the relentless fight for justice. She embodies the spirit of all those unjustly detained. We are all extremely worried for her health, and I assure you—we will continue to plea for her immediate release. [I would invite you all to share a round of applause for her, and for all those currently detained.]

Regardless of the challenges ahead, our commitment to supporting free and independent media in Georgia will remain steadfast. This is not just a priority—it is a certainty.

For many years, we believed that the primary challenge was to support the professional development of journalism in Georgia. That is why this Prize was created—to promote quality journalism, ethical reporting, and a thriving media landscape. Now we know that it is about much more. It is for Georgia to continue to uphold fundamental rights: right to free speech and freedom of expression.

I would like to extend my gratitude to all those who have submitted their work for consideration. Your dedication, your courage, and your storytelling provide an invaluable service to society, especially in these difficult times.

As with any competition, difficult choices had to be made. I wish to thank our esteemed jury members, whose professional expertise and integrity have been invaluable in this process—Eka Basilaia, Eka Togonidze, Ia Bersenadze, and Natela Grigalashvili.

To our finalists and winners: thank you. Your work is a testament to the resilience of journalism, and your stories serve as a beacon of hope and truth.

Finally, at a time when journalism faces unprecedented challenges, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting the media. This is not the time to give up. On the contrary, we must redouble our efforts. It is with this conviction that we expect to announce, on 3 May—World Press Freedom Day, the next, 14th edition of the European Prize for Journalism.

Didi Madloba