U.S. Ambassador to Georgia, Robin Dunnigan, emphasized the indispensable role of the media in a democratic society during a meeting with media representatives. Condemning the violence faced by journalists, the Ambassador attributed these attacks to the Georgian Dream (GD) government’s repressive policies. She stressed the need for journalists to operate without fear, reinforcing the commitment to democracy.
Meanwhile, the Georgian judiciary continues to issue fines and detentions against protesters. Pediatrician Kote Chakhunashvili was fined 2500 GEL after being arrested under administrative charges. His abduction-style arrest highlights concerns about the excessive use of force. Similarly, the detention of members of the opposition youth organization Unity-UNM underscores the escalating political tensions.
Protests in Kutaisi, now on their fourteenth day, focus on opposing Russian influence and advocating for a European future. Demonstrators demand new elections and the release of illegally detained individuals. In Tbilisi, civil servants and former public sector employees joined the protests, urging their colleagues to stand against government policies perceived as anti-European.
Labor rights violations have also come under scrutiny, with the Public Defender emphasizing constitutional protections for free speech in the workplace. Allegations of arbitrary dismissals and pressure on public employees highlight broader concerns about the erosion of democratic norms.
Reports of mistreatment in detention centers further amplify these concerns. Of 352 detainees visited by the Public Defender’s Office, 226 reported abuse, and 157 showed visible injuries. This data underscores systemic issues within Georgia’s law enforcement.
At the legislative level, amendments to the “Law on the Special State Protection Service” reduce post-term privileges for top officials under certain conditions. Separately, a new draft law proposes the re-establishment of political groups within the Parliament, aiming to provide greater organizational flexibility.
Civil society organizations have criticized the arbitrary summoning of foreign nationals participating in protests, labeling such actions as violations of national and international laws. These NGOs call for an end to the unjustified deportation of demonstrators.
Academic and civic protests also continue, with students and professors opposing educational policies perceived as undermining European integration. The protest outside the Ministry of Education reflects broader dissatisfaction with the government’s stance.
In Batumi, the detention of a university dean and students accused of group violence further fuels societal tensions. Meanwhile, legislative initiatives such as banning laser pointers at rallies highlight the government’s focus on managing dissent.
As tensions rise, President Salome Zurabishvili voiced discontent over a diplomatic exchange, signaling friction within the government’s approach to European integration. Her remarks align with ongoing pro-EU protests, underlining the growing divide between Georgia’s aspirations and its current trajectory.
