The International Federation of Actors (IFA) calls on Georgian authorities to release from prison Andro Chichinadze, who was sentenced to two years in jail.
FIA calls for the immediate release of actor Andro Chichinadze, who has been sentenced to two years of imprisonment for participating in a pro-European, anti-government protest. Based on the information available to us, and contrary to the allegations brought against him – which appear to be largely politically motivated given his public profile in Georgia – Mr. Chichinadze was not engaged in violence but was exercising his rights as a citizen by expressing his convictions. Several international organizations have also raised serious concerns about the fairness of his trial, suggesting that due process was not respected and that the proceedings were intended to target him.
FIA is concerned about developments that appear to be affecting freedom of expression in Georgia, including within the artistic and theatrical community. In a powerful show of solidarity, several of Mr. Chichinadze’s colleagues resigned from the theatre in protest after a banner supporting him was removed by management.
Freedom of expression is a fundamental right and a cornerstone of any democratic society. It is particularly vital in the artistic world, where creativity, dissent, and critical voices must be protected and encouraged. Undermining these freedoms not only harms artists but weakens society as a whole.
FIA therefore reiterates its call for the immediate and unconditional release of Andro Chichinadze and expresses its full solidarity with him and with all artists in Georgia who continue to defend their fundamental rights under increasingly difficult circumstances.
The International Federation of Actors (FIA) brings together 87 trade unions, guilds, and professional associations across 61 countries worldwide. It represents the voice of more than 500.000 professional actors, dancers, and other performing artists working in recorded media as well as in live theatre.
International Federation of Actors, Brussels, April 8, 2026.
