Recent events in Georgia have escalated into violent clashes between police and protesters following the government’s decision to suspend European Union (EU) accession talks. At least 44 people, including 27 protesters, 16 police officers, and one media worker, have been hospitalized amid the turmoil, which has unfolded over four consecutive nights of protests, predominantly centered outside the Georgian parliament in Tbilisi. Demonstrators, upset over the government’s stance on EU integration and perceived democratic backsliding, have resorted to throwing stones and fireworks at law enforcement. In response, the police have deployed water cannons, tear gas, and pepper spray to disperse the crowds. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze issued a stern warning, asserting that any law violations would be met with severe repercussions and asserting that the government remains committed to its European aspirations.
The unrest was triggered by the announcement from the ruling Georgian Dream party, which stated that it would halt EU accession discussions until at least 2028. This decision followed the European Parliament’s condemnation of the recent parliamentary elections held on October 26, which ultimately allowed the Georgian Dream to maintain power despite allegations of violence, bribery, and electoral fraud. International observers reported multiple irregularities, and EU lawmakers are calling for a re-run of the elections, which were deemed neither free nor fair. The EU’s condemnation of the election process marked a significant shift in relations, as Georgia had been working toward closer ties with the European Union, a goal now jeopardized by the government’s controversial actions.
Following the passage of a contentious ‘foreign influence’ law earlier this year, which many believe undermines democratic freedoms, the European Union formally granted Georgia candidate status in December 2023 on the condition that it adheres to the bloc’s recommendations. However, the suspension of membership negotiations raises concerns over Georgia’s commitment to democratic reforms. The ruling party’s increasing authoritarianism and tendencies toward alignment with Moscow have further fueled these worries, particularly as laws resembling those in Russia, which restrict freedom of speech and LGBTQ+ rights, have been enacted in Georgia.
Amid the unrest, President Salome Zourabichvili has found herself at the center of the political storm. With her term ending later this month, she has stated her intention to remain in office, deeming the government’s actions as illegitimate and arguing that they lack the authority to appoint her successor. Zourabichvili has characterized the scale of the protests as unprecedented, noting an expansion of dissent beyond Tbilisi, highlighting resignations within state institutions, and citizen initiatives aimed at political change, including petitions and protests.
In an interview, Zourabichvili addressed the geopolitical dimensions of the current unrest, suggesting that Russia is employing tactics reminiscent of an “electoral war” to undermine Georgia’s European aspirations. She emphasized the connection between the situation in Georgia and broader regional dynamics, noting similarities in Russia’s strategies in other Eastern European countries such as Romania and Moldova. According to Zourabichvili, the protests represent a collective push against Russia’s influence in Georgia and a demand for genuine democratic governance.
As the situation continues to unfold, the future of Georgia’s integration with the European Union hangs in the balance, contingent on the government’s response to national discontent and international scrutiny. With mounting public pressure and increasing calls for accountability within the Georgian Dream party, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether the government can navigate this crisis while meeting the aspirations of its citizens and the expectations of the EU. The growing unrest not only reflects the desperation for democratic reform but also illustrates the potential ramifications of external influences on Georgia’s political landscape as it strives to assert its sovereignty and align itself with Western democratic values.
