Key facts
- Georgia's Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze criticized UK sanctions for impacting media advertising.
- Consumer giant P&G has cut advertising with Georgian media group Imedi.
- Nestle is investigating its ties to Imedi.
- Kobakhidze called the UK's actions a "shame for Britain" and an attack on free media.
- He assured that Georgian media outlets would continue to operate without issues.
Georgia's Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has strongly criticized the UK government and opposition leader Keir Starmer following reports that major consumer companies are withdrawing advertising from Georgian media outlets due to UK sanctions.
City AM revealed that consumer giant Procter & Gamble (P&G) has ceased advertising with Imedi TV, Georgia's largest media group, and that Nestle is considering similar action. These decisions followed the UK government's imposition of sanctions on Imedi in February.
Kobakhidze described the withdrawals as "a shame for England, a shame for Britain, and a shame for Starmer personally." He accused Britain of attacking free media in Georgia, a country traditionally viewed as a homeland of human rights. The Prime Minister asserted that these actions would not impact Imedi TV or Postv, guaranteeing their continued smooth operation and the protection of media freedom in Georgia.
Georgia has experienced significant protests against the ruling Georgian Dream party, which has faced accusations of being pro-Russian and anti-democratic. Protests erupted in 2024 over a law targeting "foreign influence," seen as a threat to free speech and European ties. Last year, demonstrators attempted to storm the presidential palace, leading Kobakhidze to seek the outlawing of three major opposition parties. More recently, 10 opposition leaders received prison sentences related to the Atoneli Palace incident.
In response to the advertising cuts, a P&G spokesperson stated the company adheres to sanctions compliance and has voluntarily adjusted its media purchasing. A Nestle spokesperson reassured that the company complies with all applicable laws and international sanctions.