This is not just about elections. This is about Georgia’s future as a democratic and European nation
Georgia is gripped by a political crisis as protests erupt across the nation, fueled by the government’s decision to pause European Union accession talks. Pro-Western President Salome Zourabichvili has labeled the current parliament “illegitimate” and called for fresh elections to restore the country’s European trajectory, as unrest continues for a third consecutive night.
Protests Rock the Nation
Mass protests have engulfed the capital, Tbilisi, and other cities including Batumi, Kutaisi, and Zugdidi. Riot police have been deployed around the parliament building in Tbilisi, using tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets to disperse demonstrators. Despite the crackdown, protesters remain defiant, setting up barricades and launching fireworks in retaliation.
At the heart of the unrest is widespread anger over the government’s decision to shelve EU negotiations until 2028. The decision, announced by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, followed allegations of voter fraud in last month’s parliamentary elections. “The Georgian people overwhelmingly support integration with Europe,” said the U.S. State Department, which has suspended its strategic partnership with Georgia, citing “anti-democratic actions.”
Mounting Tensions
Since 2012, Georgia has been governed by the Georgian Dream party, which critics accuse of steering the country closer to Russia. The party claims victory in the disputed elections, but opposition MPs have boycotted parliament, alleging fraud, voter intimidation, and vote-buying. The European Parliament echoed these concerns, describing the election as the latest chapter in Georgia’s “worsening democratic crisis.”
Protesters have set up barricades and some are shooting fireworks. Credit: Reuters
Public dissent has been further fueled by the resignations of Georgian ambassadors to Bulgaria, the Netherlands, and Italy, as well as letters signed by hundreds of civil servants condemning the government’s stance. Writer and activist Lasha Bugadze accused Georgia’s public broadcaster of spreading government propaganda, stating, “They are brainwashing our population with misinformation.”
A Nation Divided!
The protests have seen significant violence, with 150 demonstrators detained and 50 police officers reportedly injured. Police tactics have included chasing protesters at dawn and using batons, with reports of excessive force sparking international condemnation. “The systemic violence against peaceful demonstrators and journalists must stop,” said a coalition of opposition parties, which have demanded elections under international supervision.
The clashes have exposed deep divisions in Georgian society. While the government accuses protesters of inciting violence, opposition leaders and public figures argue that the ruling party is suppressing legitimate dissent. “This is not just about elections. This is about Georgia’s future as a democratic and European nation,” said a protester in Tbilisi.
Police use water cannon to disperse opposition supporters in front of the parliament building in Tbilisi. Credit: EPA
Economic and Political Fallout
Georgia’s decision to pause EU accession talks threatens its economic and geopolitical aspirations. The country’s EU trade accounts for 27% of its exports, and public support for EU integration stands at 77%, according to recent polls. Analysts warn that distancing from Europe could isolate Georgia further on the global stage, leaving it vulnerable to Russian influence.
The U.S. suspension of its strategic partnership adds to the pressure. “The government’s actions undermine Georgia’s democratic aspirations,” a U.S. official said. The European Parliament has called for accountability, stating that “Georgia’s ruling party bears full responsibility for the crisis.”
What’s Next for Georgia?
President Zourabichvili has pledged to remain in office until fresh elections are held, offering what she calls “stability for the transition.” However, the government has announced plans to replace her on December 14, further complicating the political standoff. Opposition coalitions have demanded international oversight for any future elections, citing mistrust in the current administration.
As protests continue to grow, the world watches closely. The crisis in Georgia underscores the stakes of balancing democratic reforms, European integration, and internal political stability. For now, the nation stands at a crossroads, with its democratic and European future hanging in the balance.
