Tens of thousands gathered in Georgia for a fourth consecutive day of protests on Sunday, opposing the government’s decision to delay EU membership talks. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze dismissed calls for new elections despite mounting unrest. The Georgian Dream party’s disputed parliamentary victory on October 26 has fueled accusations of steering the country closer to Russia. Pro-EU President Salome Zurabishvili, deeming the new legislature illegitimate, has sought to annul the election results.
The protests, triggered by the decision to delay EU accession talks until 2028, have led to clashes in Tbilisi and other cities. Police have arrested up to 200 demonstrators, employing rubber bullets, tear gas, and water cannons. Protesters, waving EU and Georgian flags, have rallied outside parliament and government offices, demanding accountability and change.
The opposition, led by the United National Movement party, has labeled the Georgian Dream government pro-Russian. Demonstrators also protested outside Georgia’s Public Broadcaster, which eventually conceded to air Zurabishvili’s address.
International condemnation has followed the violent crackdown, with Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania announcing sanctions against those suppressing protests. The European Parliament has demanded a re-run of elections, while U.S. officials condemned the excessive use of force. Zurabishvili maintains she is the only legitimate authority and has refused to resign until the elections are re-held.
Diplomats, academics, and civil servants have voiced strong opposition to the postponement of EU talks, citing constitutional violations and international isolation risks. Several ambassadors have resigned, and numerous schools and universities have suspended operations in protest.
