The political crisis in Georgia has entered a critical stage, as protests against the presidential elections and perceived government repression intensify. Events from December 11 to 14 revealed escalating public dissatisfaction, international concern, and deeper divisions between the Georgian Dream government and the pro-European aspirations of its citizens.
The protests began as a reaction to what demonstrators describe as an illegitimate presidential election process, culminating in the controversial nomination of Mikheil Kavelashvili, a former footballer lacking formal qualifications. Public discontent grew when the Georgian Dream government proceeded with the election, dismissing widespread calls for reform. The nomination, seen as emblematic of a larger systemic failure, spurred protests under slogans such as “Let’s Show Kavelashvili the Diploma.”
President Salome Zurabishvili emerged as a central figure in the opposition to the government, criticizing the elections as a “mockery of democracy.” On December 14, Zurabishvili joined demonstrators on Rustaveli Avenue, calling for calm while reaffirming her commitment to Georgia’s European trajectory. Her presence coincided with the Tbilisi Mayor’s decision to postpone the Christmas tree lighting ceremony, a symbolic moment amid the unrest. Zurabishvili’s actions have drawn international praise, with figures like Nathalie Loiseau and Rasa Juknevičienė reaffirming their support for her leadership during this crisis.
Across Georgia, protests have spread to cities like Kutaisi and Zugdidi, reflecting nationwide frustration with the government. Demonstrators demand the release of detained activists, the rerun of parliamentary elections, and a recommitment to democratic principles. Civil society organizations, including the Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association, have launched efforts to document instances of police violence, illegal detentions, and other rights violations. Their findings reveal alarming trends: over 350 individuals detained, with many reporting mistreatment and visible injuries.
The international community has closely monitored these developments. On December 12, a European Parliament delegation arrived in Georgia to show solidarity with the protesters and emphasize the importance of free and fair elections. Statements from U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen and Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen underscored the urgency of addressing human rights abuses and reaffirming Georgia’s European path. Meanwhile, Transparency International Georgia highlighted significant financial contributions to the Georgian Dream party from local businesses, raising further questions about the government’s legitimacy and alignment with public interests.
The unrest has not been limited to traditional political circles. Diverse groups, including students, IT specialists, and representatives from the creative and music industries, have joined the protests, organizing marches and strikes to voice their discontent. On December 13, mothers marched to Orbeliani Palace, condemning state violence against their children and asserting the president as the sole legitimate authority in the country. Civil servants, including those who resigned in protest of the government’s anti-European stance, have also taken to the streets, urging their colleagues to do the same.
Law enforcement’s response to the protests has been marked by heightened security measures and allegations of excessive force. The mobilization of police near Parliament, the deployment of water cannons, and the use of restrictive measures against protesters have drawn criticism from human rights organizations. Additionally, non-governmental groups have raised concerns about the targeting of foreign nationals participating in peaceful demonstrations, some of whom have been forcibly expelled from the country.
The Georgian Dream government’s actions, including amendments limiting post-term protections for officials and attempts to regulate protest tools like lasers, have further alienated the public. Opposition leaders have denounced these moves as part of a broader authoritarian agenda, accusing the government of orchestrating a “constitutional coup.” In a joint statement, opposition parties reaffirmed Salome Zurabishvili as the only legitimate president and called for immediate electoral reforms.
As Georgia faces mounting internal and external pressures, the stakes for its democratic and European aspirations have never been higher. The coming weeks will determine whether the nation can bridge its political divides and uphold the principles of democracy, or if it will face deeper instability and international isolation.
