The Mzia Effect: Safeguarding Journalism’s Future

From April 23–26, at Pavilion 11 of Expo Georgia, the Tbilisi International Book Fair 2026 was held, organized by the Georgian Book Association. “This year’s fair stands out for its scale and concept. Independent publishers are uniting to defend freedom of speech and expression, which is our main message,” the Association said in a statement.

At the book fair, space was dedicated to “Sinatle Media,” an initiative created to support independent online media publishers. At the “Sinatle Media” stand, the “Media Voice” study titled “Media Environment 2025: Navigating During Media Capture in Georgia” was presented, placing particular emphasis on the unlawful imprisonment of journalist, founder of Batumelebi Mzia Amaglobeli. One chapter of the study, titled “The Mzia Effect,” analyzes the phenomenon of Mzia Amaglobeli in both Georgian and global journalism.

A discussion titled “The Mzia Effect” was held on April 24 on the main stage of the book fair, organized by “Sinatle Media,” where Amaglobeli’s colleagues spoke about how her courage has changed journalists and journalism today, and what impact it may have in the future.

“Sinatle Media” is a unique example of the institutionalization of solidarity and resilience. “Media Voice” supports this initiative and calls on everyone to stand behind and strengthen free media.

With the support of “Sinatle Media,” anyone can become part of the community fighting for freedom of speech.

Follow the link and support the media - every small donation matters! Journalism Matters!

Freedom for Mzia Amaglobeli!

Freedom for Zviad Ratiani!

Freedom for prisoners of conscience!

Photos by Mariam Gersamia, Netgazeti, and Mariam Dzadzamia were used.