Pro-European protests have gripped Georgia, especially in its capital Tbilisi, as the nation faces significant political upheaval. Recent demonstrations have erupted following the government's controversial decision to halt its discussions with the European Union (EU) until 2028, igniting widespread discontent among citizens calling for stronger ties with Europe.
These protests catalyzed on November 28 after Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced the government's plans on EU accession, which many view as a regression toward former Soviet influence. The continuation of protests since then reflects the public's frustration with what they perceive as rigged election results from the October 26 parliamentary elections, which solidified the ruling Georgian Dream party's power and sparked allegations of electoral fraud.
During the latest protests from December 7 to 8, demonstrators gathered on Rustaveli Avenue, expressing their demand for both the restoration of EU integration talks and new elections. Unlike previous bouts of civil unrest where police utilized water cannons and tear gas, this time, masked groups referred to as “titushki” instigated violence against protesters and journalists. Eyewitnesses described brutal assaults occurring directly under the watch of law enforcement, who failed to protect peaceful demonstrators. Indeed, reports indicate police did not intervene as these dark-clad assailants wreaked havoc, leading to the looting of opposition party offices and the assault of numerous individuals.
Among those targeted were the crew from Pirveli TV, who were attacked live on-air. Cameraman Giorgi Shetsiruli and journalist Maka Chiladze suffered injuries during the ambush, leaving them needing medical attention for concussions. Their distressing situation exemplifies the antagonistic environment around the protests as individuals expressing dissent faced increasing risks.
Violence intensified not only against the media but also against politicians. The office of the Coalition for Change, another opposing group, was stormed, with members inside reporting violent attacks. The well-known actor Giorgi Mahradze was also beaten, raising alarms about the safety of individuals participating or even observing the rallies.
Georgia's President Salome Zourabishvili, who has openly criticized these violent crackdowns, conveyed her concerns from Paris, calling the regime's actions against peaceful citizens terrifying. She remarks, "They are targeting peaceful citizens fleeing terror on the streets, attacking politicians, journalists, and actors." With her calls for support from the international community, Zourabishvili highlights the growing urgency of the political situation, emphasizing the perception of Georgia slipping back under Russian influence.
Further complicity arises as reports of excessive force from the police surfaced, having resulted in hundreds of arrests. Rights ombudsmen have decried these acts, citing numerous detained individuals displayed signs of mistreatment. The incidents at the protests sparked widespread condemnation from international actors, including the foreign ministers of France, Germany, and Poland, who collectively denounced the disproportionate force exercised against protesters.
The safety of journalists remains precarious. Attacks against the media during these protests revitalize discussions around press freedom within Georgia. Such incidents exemplify the tense dynamics between the governing Georgian Dream party and media outlets, which the government often accuses of bias and misinformation. Independent media, such as Pirveli, reporting on the recent violence has faced heightened risks, affecting their ability to cover these significant societal events.
Public sentiment within the protests remained strong. Signs demanding fresh and fair elections alongside slogans for European integration demonstrated protesters' unwavering determination. "This is our last chance to be free, to be happy. We want Europe, and Europe only," remarked protester Giorgi Romanadze, encapsulating the general sentiment among the demonstrators.
While imprisonment of opposition members and peaceful demonstrators continues, tensions only escalate, prompting calls from protesters for the international community to intervene. Statements such as, "We cannot win this fight on our own" highlight the desperation felt among citizens and the perceived necessity for external support.
This insistence on returning to European ideals resonates widely, especially as approximately 80% of Georgians endorse EU membership, which has been constitutionally enshrined. Facing internal and external pressure, the Georgian government continues to contest claims of authoritarianism, claiming the need to control protests due to alleged foreign interference.
Moving forward, the path remains uncertain, with both sides entrenched. The government shows no inclination to reverse its position, prompting concerns about the potential repercussions on Georgia's democratic principles and its relationship with the EU. Amidst the prevailing political strife, ordinary citizens, artists, journalists, and politicians navigate risks tied to their pursuit for free and fair governance, and the right to establish the nation's future.
The situation is far from resolution as demonstrations are expected to persist, demanding accountability and reforms. The fear of returning to the dominance of Russian influence looms large within the narrative of these protests, as international observers closely monitor Georgia's response to its citizens' calls for change.