Protests in Georgia continue for the second week after the government’s decision to freeze talks on joining the European Union until 2028. Demonstrations, initially centered in Tbilisi, have spread to other parts of the country.

Escalating Protests

The unrest began after the ruling Georgian Dream party announced the suspension of EU negotiations, citing criticism from the European Parliament, which deemed the recent elections neither free nor fair.

• Police Tactics: Water cannons and tear gas are being used to disperse demonstrators. Over 100 people, including journalists and bystanders, have been injured.
• Attacks on Media: Journalist Guram Rogava suffered facial fractures during a live broadcast, claiming that media representatives were deliberately targeted.
• Victims: A 22-year-old protester, Aleksi Tirkia, remains in a medically induced coma after being struck by a tear gas canister.

Political Background

The suspension of EU talks reflects deepening tensions between the pro-European opposition and the ruling party.

• October 26 Elections: Observers and opposition parties reported widespread irregularities, including violence and vote-buying.
• European Parliament Criticism: Brussels criticized the elections and expressed concerns over Georgia’s democratic backsliding.
• Pro-European Opposition: President Salome Zourabichvili has called on Western partners to pressure the government.

Voices from the Protests

Many protesters view closer ties with Moscow and the rejection of EU integration as a threat to the country’s future.

“We want stronger ties with Europe and the U.S. Russia is not our choice. Young people are out here fighting for this,” said protester Tamar Akhveldiami.

Authoritarian Tendencies

Critics accuse Georgian Dream of increasingly authoritarian behavior. The party has passed laws modeled after Russia’s, including restrictions on LGBTQ+ rights and freedom of speech. A controversial “foreign agents” law, passed earlier this year, was widely seen as an attack on democratic freedoms.

International Reaction

The EU suspended Georgia’s candidacy process after the adoption of controversial legislation. Brussels and international organizations have condemned the government’s actions, but specific measures are yet to be announced.

Future of the Protests

Observers warn that harsh crackdowns could further radicalize demonstrators. The situation remains volatile, with no clear resolution to the political crisis in sight.