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Georgian Dream Alleges Western Interference in Statement
On January 8, the ruling Georgian Dream party released a statement addressing Western sanctions and Georgia’s current political developments. The party accused Western nations of supporting a “party of global war” and a “deep state” allegedly working to destabilize Georgia and push it into war. It linked US and European leaders to this alleged network…
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Georgia: Reports of Systematic Abuse and Torture Against Protesters
Ongoing protests in Georgia over EU membership have led NGOs to allege torture from authorities. CREDIT: Tbel Abuseridze.Multiple human rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch (HRW) and the Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA, leading Georgian human rights advocacy), have reported allegations of excessive force and ill-treatment of protesters by Georgian police and security forces between November 28 and December 20, 2024. The incidents occurred during protests in Tbilisi, sparked by the ruling…
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Georgia: a Year of Crisis
We turn our attention back to Georgia in 2024. CREDIT: Tbel Abuseridze.Throughout 2024, Georgia experienced mounting political turmoil, characterized by violent protests, international criticism, contentious elections, and escalating accusations of pro-Russian policies against the ruling Georgian Dream party. Today, we revisit the political crisis that unfolded in Georgia over the past year. The Foreign Agents Law In early 2023, the Georgian Parliament introduced a draft law…
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Mikhaïl Kavelachvili: Former Footballer Becomes Georgia’s New President
Mikhaïl Kavelachvili, 53, a former international footballer, became Georgia’s new president following an indirect election on December 14, conducted by a 300-member electoral college dominated by the ruling Georgian Dream party. Kavelachvili, who played for Manchester City and several Swiss clubs, transitioned into politics after retiring from football. A member of parliament since 2016, he…
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UK and EU Respond to Georgia’s Protests
The United Kingdom has suspended program support and restricted defense cooperation with the Georgian government, citing concerns over a departure from European democratic norms. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced the decision on December 9, adding that engagement with Georgia’s ruling Georgian Dream government will also be limited. The move comes amid escalating protests in…
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Protest Erupt in Georgia Over EU Membership Delay
Mass protests erupted in Tbilisi after the Georgian government announced a delay in EU membership talks until 2028. Demonstrations began Thursday, intensifying Friday, as thousands gathered outside the Parliament building, waving EU and Georgian flags. Protesters accuse the ruling Georgian Dream party of democratic backsliding and pro-Russian policies. Clashes erupted as riot police used rubber…