Lawmakers from the European Parliament’s foreign affairs and development committees selected the shortlist behind closed doors, the Polish public broadcaster’s Brussels correspondent, Beata Płomecka, reported.
Poczobut and Amaglobeli appear as a joint candidacy backed by the largest center-right group and conservatives—support seen as boosting their chances.
The pairing underscores shared themes: both are journalists, and Georgia is portrayed as drifting onto a path similar to Belarus, the source said.
Poland’s Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski welcomed Poczobut’s nomination, saying it was deserved and expressing hope it could help prompt his release from a Belarusian penal colony.
In addition to the joint Poczobut-Amaglobeli entry, the shortlist includes Serbian students as well as Palestinian journalists and humanitarian workers.
Leaders of the Parliament’s political groups are due to choose the laureate from the shortlisted candidates next week during the assembly’s session in Strasbourg.
The award ceremony traditionally takes place at the Parliament’s December session, with winners or their families and representatives receiving the honor.
Established in 1988, the Sakharov Prize is the Parliament’s annual award recognizing contributions to human rights and democracy.
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Source: Polskie Radio 24, PAP