We are concerned about the Georgian government's Hate Speech Unit - U.S. Embassy in Georgia

The U.S. Embassy in Georgia, in response to questions from Radio Liberty, writes that they are concerned about "the Georgian government's Hate Speech Unit."

"The Trump administration has made clear that the United States considers freedom of speech to be a fundamental foundation of a functioning society, and we strongly oppose censorship and restrictive laws that are used to silence those with unpopular views.

...As we have shared with our Georgian partners, stability requires a political opposition that engages with state institutions on behalf of the citizens who voted for them. Political stability, supported by a broad representation of views, is part of what makes Georgia a reliable partner for American investment, security cooperation, and a long-term strategic partnership.

...We are concerned about the Georgian government's Hate Speech Counterintelligence Division. The best response to lies and misinformation is greater freedom of speech, not enforced silence," a U.S. Embassy spokesperson wrote to Radio Georgia. Radio Liberty on July 28.

Radio Liberty contacted the U.S. Embassy on July 22 after law enforcement officers detained a Georgian Dream politician, Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili, and MP Lado Bozhadze, for 15 days for an insulting Facebook post on social media.