Bidzina Ivanishvili once again included in the list of ‘Press Freedom Predators’

The international organization Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has once again included the founder and honorary chairman of "Georgian Dream", Bidzina Ivanishvili, in the 2026 list of "Press Freedom Predators". According to the organization, Ivanishvili, who is referred to as the real power behind the Georgian government, exerts influence over the media through economic levers. According to RSF's assessment, financial pressure, repressive laws, censorship, and legal prosecution are used to strengthen control over the media, and Ivanishvili's influence is manifested particularly through pro-government television companies, "Imedi" and "Rustavi 2". Formula+4

In its assessment of Bidzina Ivanishvili's 2026 activities, the organization highlights several issues, including: keeping independent journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli in detention; the adoption of new repressive laws that link certain forms of foreign funding to criminal liability; the use of the broadcast regulator to punish critical television companies, including "Formula" and "TV Pirveli"; as well as the increase in legal disputes against journalists and the restriction of their accreditation in parliament. Formula+1

RSF's profile cites Bidzina Ivanishvili's September 2024 statement, where he notes that human rights are protected in Georgia, the judicial system is healthy, and the media is independent. According to various sources, between 33 and 35 individuals are included in the RSF list, including leaders from various countries around the world. Formula+3