Georgia at a Crossroads: 200 Days of Protest for Democracy and Europe

Since October 2024, Georgia has witnessed mass protests against election fraud, the suspension of EU integration, and a foreign agents law seen as repressive. Thousands continue to protest despite harsh police crackdowns and the arrest of opposition leaders. Condemned by the international community, the movement has become a symbol of Georgia’s fight for democracy and its pro-European future.

Since late October 2024, Georgia has seen sustained nationwide protests triggered by contested parliamentary elections held on October 26. The ruling Georgian Dream party claimed victory, but the opposition denounced the results as fraudulent and refused to recognize them.

Tensions escalated when the government announced on November 28 that it would suspend EU accession efforts until at least 2028, sparking further outrage among pro-European citizens. Simultaneously, the ruling party introduced a controversial “foreign agents law” aimed at restricting independent NGOs and media — widely seen as a threat to democracy.

Thousands took to the streets daily in Tbilisi and across the country. Protesters organized sit-ins, human chains, student strikes, and blockades, especially around the Georgian Parliament on Rustaveli Avenue. The movement drew support from youth, civil society, artists, journalists, and political opposition.

Authorities responded with force: police used tear gas, water cannons, and carried out mass arrests. Journalists and human rights defenders were attacked. Key opposition figures — including Nika Melia, Zurab Japaridze, and Nika Gvaramia — were arrested over the course of the protests.

The international community reacted with concern. The EU froze visa liberalization talks, while the U.S. and UK condemned the crackdown and considered sanctions.

The protests have lasted over 200 days and represent a major standoff between citizens demanding democratic reform and a government accused of shifting toward authoritarianism. Despite repression, the movement continues to push for free elections, civil liberties, and a renewed European path for Georgia.