Georgia is in turmoil as violent protests grip the country following a controversial government decision to delay its bid for European Union (EU) membership. The South Caucasus nation of 3.7 million people is at a crossroads, with its future torn between pro-European aspirations and allegations of authoritarianism and pro-Russian influence by its ruling party, Georgian Dream. Here’s a detailed look at the unfolding situation.
The Trigger for Protests
Tensions flared in October after the ruling Georgian Dream party claimed victory in a contentious election widely viewed as a referendum on EU membership. Georgia, which declared independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, has long pursued closer ties with Europe. EU membership is enshrined in the country’s constitution, reflecting the aspirations of most Georgians. Polls show consistent public support for integration with Europe.
The nation’s prospects seemed promising after gaining EU candidate status last year. However, a turning point came on November 28, when the government announced a four-year suspension of EU accession talks. The decision followed the European Parliament’s rejection of Georgia’s election results, citing irregularities. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze accused the EU of “blackmail” and attempting to incite a revolution, stating that Georgia would not reopen negotiations until at least 2028 and would refuse EU budgetary grants.
Protests Erupt Nationwide
This perceived pivot away from Europe ignited widespread anger, bringing thousands of Georgians to the streets. The capital, Tbilisi, became the epicenter of pro-EU demonstrations, with protesters waving Georgian and EU flags and chanting anti-Russian slogans. Demonstrators decried the government as “Russian slaves,” underscoring fears of closer alignment with Moscow.
The protests were met with a heavy-handed response from police, who deployed tear gas and water cannons. Masked men in balaclavas were seen attacking protesters, further inflaming tensions. Despite the crackdown, demonstrations have spread to at least eight cities, with reports of protesters in Khashuri throwing eggs at a local Georgian Dream office and blocking roads to the port city of Poti.
The unrest has resulted in over 100 arrests and numerous injuries. Observers have noted the severity of the police response, described as reminiscent of Russian-style repression. Salome Zourabichvili, Georgia’s largely ceremonial president and a pro-Western figure, condemned the violence, stating that authorities targeted journalists and opposition leaders.
Backdrop of Discontent
Georgia’s path to democracy has been fraught with challenges. Public support for European integration remains high—nearly 80% according to a December 2023 poll by the National Democratic Institute. However, the country’s relationship with Russia casts a shadow over its ambitions.
Memories of Russia’s 2008 invasion, which left 20% of Georgian territory under Russian control, are still raw. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 heightened fears of Moscow’s influence, especially as thousands of Russians fled to Georgia to escape conscription. Many Georgians view this influx as a threat to their culture and independence, fueling concerns of “Russification.”
Critics accuse Georgian Dream of steering the country away from its democratic path. Founded by Bidzina Ivanishvili, a billionaire with ties to Russia, the party has drawn criticism for authoritarian tendencies. Earlier this year, the government introduced a controversial “foreign agent” law resembling Russian legislation, raising alarms among Western allies and domestic opposition groups.
Experts warn that the decision to halt EU accession talks is another troubling sign. Ketevan Chachava, a fellow at the Center for European Policy Analysis, described it as a red flag, signaling a shift toward authoritarianism and away from democratic freedoms.
International Reactions
The United States and EU have condemned both the government’s actions and the violent police response to protesters. The US State Department criticized the “excessive use of force” and announced the suspension of its strategic partnership with Georgia. It called on the government to investigate election irregularities, repeal anti-democratic laws, and recommit to its Euro-Atlantic path.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas expressed solidarity with the Georgian people and their desire for a European future. She condemned the government’s violence against protesters and warned of potential consequences for Georgia’s EU aspirations if democratic backsliding continues.
Government Response and Divisions
Prime Minister Kobakhidze has dismissed international criticism, defending the police response as necessary to protect the constitutional order. He insists that Georgian Dream remains committed to EU membership but opposes what he describes as EU manipulation. However, skepticism about the party’s intentions is growing, both domestically and internationally.
More than 100 Georgian diplomats and civil servants have signed open letters criticizing the government’s decision to delay EU talks, calling it unlawful and a betrayal of national interests. Meanwhile, Russian officials have taken note of the turmoil. Dmitry Medvedev, Russia’s former president, described the protests as an attempted revolution and warned that Georgia is “moving rapidly along the Ukrainian path, into the dark abyss.”
What’s Next for Georgia?
The unfolding crisis highlights a deeper struggle over Georgia’s identity and future direction. For many, the protests are not just about EU membership but about resisting authoritarianism and protecting democratic freedoms. The outcome of this standoff could have profound implications for the region.
The Georgian government faces mounting pressure from its citizens and international partners to recommit to its pro-European path. However, its increasingly confrontational stance and close ties to Russia suggest the battle for Georgia’s future is far from over.
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