The non-governmental organizations “International Child Protection Organization,” “Me Ombudsman,” and “Georgia – Information Center for Combating Corruption” appeal to the Prime Minister of Georgia, the Minister of Internal Affairs of Georgia, the Public Defender of Georgia, the Ministry of Internally Displaced Persons from the Occupied Territories, Labor, Health and Social Affairs of Georgia, the LEPL State Care and Assistance Agency for Victims of Human Trafficking, and the Human Rights Protection and Investigation Quality Monitoring Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia.
The statement is based on circumstances identified as a result of monitoring carried out by the organizations.
Circumstances Identified During Monitoring
As part of monitoring conducted by the organizations in the city of Batumi, circumstances were identified indicating that an organized group of foreign citizens, allegedly citizens of Palestine, may be using minor children for the purpose of begging in the streets.
Possible Violation of Minors’ Rights
These circumstances may contain signs of possible violations of minors’ rights, their exploitation and, if applicable, possible signs of human trafficking.
According to the organizations, these facts require immediate, comprehensive, and objective verification by competent state authorities.
Demands Addressed to Relevant State Agencies
The non-governmental organizations demand that the examination and legal assessment of the above-mentioned factual circumstances begin immediately.
They also request the involvement of the LEPL State Care and Assistance Agency for Victims of Human Trafficking, with the participation of child protection specialists and social workers.
Verification of the Condition of Minors
The statement notes that it is necessary to verify the living, health, education, and care conditions of the minors.
It must also be established whether minors are being forced to beg or exploited in any other form.
Demand for Investigation and Legal Response
The organizations demand that, if relevant legal grounds exist, an investigation be launched in accordance with Georgian legislation and all responsible persons be held criminally liable.
In addition, if it is established that foreign citizens are violating Georgian legislation, appropriate legal measures provided for by Georgian law and immigration regulations must be taken.
Protection of the Best Interests of Minors
According to the organizations, the protection of minors’ rights and best interests is a constitutional and international legal obligation of the state.
Accordingly, they demand a timely and effective response to these facts in full compliance with the requirements of the law.