In recent days, political instability has escalated in Georgia as protests against the government’s decision to suspend European Union membership negotiations intensify. Salome Zourabichvili, the pro-Western president of Georgia, reaffirmed her commitment to remain in office until new parliamentary elections can be arranged. These turbulent events have emerged following contentious parliamentary elections in October, which many opposition leaders and citizens deemed fraudulent. Zourabichvili has openly allied herself with the opposition, labeling the current parliament as “illegitimate” and indicating that she will not resign as the parliament, comprised of members from the ruling party, attempts to designate her successor by December 14.
The protests erupted anew over the weekend, with thousands of citizens taking to the streets of Tbilisi for a third consecutive night. Riot police were deployed around the parliament building, where demonstrators gathered to voice their dissent. Reports suggest that law enforcement used tear gas and water cannons against protesters as tensions escalated. The wave of unrest is not limited to the capital; cities such as Batumi, Kutaisi, and Zugdidi have also witnessed growing demonstrations. Citizens are calling for new elections, perceiving them as a necessary step to restore Georgia’s aspirations of aligning more closely with Europe.
Zourabichvili emphasized the need for stability during the transition period, recognizing the demands of the protesters. “I’m offering this stability for the transition, because what these people on the streets are demanding is a call for new elections in order to restore this country and its European path,” she remarked. The political turmoil has prompted hundreds of civil servants to voice their opposition to the government’s postponement of EU negotiations, claiming it undermines the national interests of Georgia. Notably, ambassadors from Georgia to Bulgaria, the Netherlands, and Italy have resigned in protest.
The political landscape in Georgia has become increasingly polarized since 2012 when the Georgian Dream party took power. Critics argue that the ruling party has been systematically maneuvering the country away from its European ambitions and toward closer ties with Russia. Although Georgian Dream proclaimed victory in the disputed election, opposition members have boycotted parliament, alleging widespread electoral fraud. The European Parliament recently condemned the situation, highlighting a “worsening democratic crisis” and reprimanding the ruling party for its conduct during the electoral process.
In response to the European Parliament’s resolution regarding the election, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced that the discussion on EU membership would be sidelined until at least the end of 2028. This announcement sparked further anger among pro-EU activists, who organized demonstrations across major cities to challenge the government’s stance. Public figures, writers, and journalists have also rallied against the ruling party, accusing the public broadcaster of disseminating propaganda favoring the government. Activist Lasha Bugadze articulated concerns over media manipulation, emphasizing the need for public media to operate independently of government influence.
The protests indicate deep-rooted frustration among Georgians regarding their political leadership. Numerous opposition coalitions and parties that won seats in the legislature have issued a joint statement calling for fresh elections under international supervision. The message underscores their intention to challenge what they deem an illegitimate regime. Demonstrators have faced police crackdowns that have resulted in numerous injuries and arrests during recent protests.
The U.S. State Department has condemned the excessive use of force against protesters and called for all parties involved to engage peacefully. The ongoing unrest in Georgia signifies a larger struggle over democratic values and national identity, as calls for a genuine commitment to EU integration clash with a government that has sparked deep division within the country. What remains to be seen is how the unfolding situation will impact Georgia’s political future and its relationship with both the European Union and regional powers.
