Zum Inhalt der Seite gehen


In Tbilisi, Georgia, protestors were out on the streets in their tens of thousands for the twelfth night running.

It is freezing out there, so to keep them warm they decided to burn an effigy of Georgian Dream party chairman and billionaire mastermind Bidzina Ivanishvili. He was in a coffin this time.

If it looks a bit voodoo, that's because it is. Ivanishvili is very superstitious...

#GeorgiaProtests
Protestors in Tbilisi, Georgia gather round a burning coffin containing an effigy of Bidzina Ivanishvili.
"The persistent democratic backslide and the recent repressive means used by Georgian authorities have consequences for our bilateral relations. The EU will consider additional measures at the upcoming Foreign Affairs Council on 16 December.

The EU stands in solidarity with the Georgian people and their democratic and European aspirations."

E.U. Statement on Georgia.

https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/georgia-statement-spokesperson-developments-georgia_en
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
In Georgia, the security services are forecasting that 'local actors directed by special services of foreign powers'' are going to escalate the protests by orchestrating the deaths of 2-3 protestors and blaming the deaths on the government.

They have zero evidence that 'special services of foreign powers' are involved in the violence at protests so far in Georgia.

At least, not on the protestor's side...

#GeorgiaProtests
#TerrorInGeorgia

https://publika.ge/susi-aqciis-organizatorebi-ganikhilaven-situaciis-dadzabvas-rasac-unda-mohyves-mskhverpli/
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
Georgian businessman Giorgi Chkheidze, who served as Georgian Dream’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture in 2016-2018, published a letter saying that halting the EU accession was “national treason.”

“A government that puts its own interests ahead of those of its people and opposes the aspirations of its people is doomed and will inevitably be defeated. The more it tries to crush and defeat people, the more severely it will be punished. This is a historical inevitability."

https://civil.ge/archives/643395
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
Salome Zourabichvilli, the unstoppable President of Georgia, today gave out medals for civic dedication to journalists and reporters covering the protests in Georgia.

Many journalists have been targeted by the ruling Georgian Dream party with detainment and hospitalisations, so this is a powerful gesture by the President, whose office is the last one not to be captured by the regime.

#GeorgiaProtests
#StandWithGeorgia

https://publika.ge/medlit-samoqalaqo-tavdadebisatvis-prezidentma-mediis-warmomadgenlebi-daajildova/
Georgian President Awards Journalists.

"You are the window through which we see what is happening. If you weren't there, people who are not outside at the demonstrations, because they can't stand there, they wouldn't know what is happening and even from one part of the protest to the other, which is spread across several cities, we wouldn't know that the country is standing against injustice."

"Your presence and your dedication are very important, today, tomorrow and always."

#GeorgiaProtests
President of Georgia awarding a medal to journalist in a civic ceremony in front of flags of Georgia and the E.U.
"In Georgia, nearly 500 people have been arrested over the past 12 days, with more than 300 reporting beatings or torture. Over 90 journalists have faced physical violence and obstruction, and more than 80 have been hospitalized. Georgian Dream is pushing to legitimize terror.

Despite the horrors, people refuse to back down—not because these events aren’t terrifying, but because they are determined to prevent Georgia from becoming Russia."

Katie Shoshiashvili,
Transparency Georgia

#Georgia
Here are some photographs from an award ceremony in Tbilisi, Georgia today. President Salome Zourabichvilli is giving out civic awards to journalists covering the recent protests in Georgia.

You'll notice that the journalists are wearing bandages and neck braces. They have all sustained injuries while covering the protests. They were all attacked by unidentified 'special forces' working for Georgia's illegitimate government.

Shine a light on this.

#TerrorInGeorgia

#GeorgiaProtests
Georgian President gives civic medal to an injured journalist.
4 injured journalists pose with their civic awards.
This will surprise absolutely nobody.

Hungary, the only EU country that has recognized the new government in Georgia, has announced that it will veto any sanctions the E.U. try to put on Georgia.

"Nonsensical and unjustified", they say.

"Orban's a Russian stooge", (I say.)

#StandWithGeorgia

https://civil.ge/archives/643509
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
"Giorgi Gakharia, the former Minister of Internal Affairs under Georgian Dream, who still maintains close ties to the structure, claims that more than 100 police officers have submitted resignation requests in protest, but the Minister is refusing to approve them."

Anna Gvarishvili,
Georgian journalist.

#GeorgiaProtests
#TerrorinGeorgia
"Despite domestic and international pressure, the Georgian government is intensifying the crackdown.

The EU has deplored authorities’ repressive actions, but it's time for decisive steps. The EU should seek independent investigations into the post-election violence by experts from the Council of Europe and the U.N., calling on them to examine the unlawful use of force, arbitrary detention, and the mounting evidence of ill-treatment and torture."

Human Rights Watch

https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/12/10/georgias-human-rights-crisis-deepens-amid-mass-protests
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
"Emmanuel Macron spoke with Bidzina Ivanishvili, the powerful billionaire behind the ruling Georgian Dream party, to express his urgent concerns over the deteriorating state of democracy in the country.

The call was initiated by Macron and comes amid a violent crackdown on protesters following disputed elections in October that Georgian Dream won.

Macron condemned law enforcement for the use of excessive force against nonviolent protesters and journalists in general."

https://www.rferl.org/a/macron-ivanishvili-message-concern-georgia-democracy-europe-france/33236289.html#amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&aoh=17339346419337&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&ampshare=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rferl.org%2Fa%2Fmacron-ivanishvili-message-concern-georgia-democracy-europe-france%2F33236289.html
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
"While on the streets of Tbilisi, Georgia – now in its fourteenth consecutive day of protests against the government’s decision to suspend the EU accession process – law enforcement violence continues, the European Union warns that it will “consider further measures” against those responsible for the democratic backsliding and repression.

However, Hungary promises: “We will veto” any sanctions on Georgian officials."

#GeorgiaProtest

https://www.eunews.it/en/2024/12/11/georgia-eu-studies-further-measures-against-crackdown-on-protests-but-hungary-warns-we-will-veto/
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
In Georgia, the independent Mtavari T.V. Channel is under threat of being closed down by it's own co founder Zaza Okuashvili. It's suspected he is being pressured (some kind of financial blackmail, not yet known) by Georgian Dream party chairman Bidzina Ivanishvili.

The journalists at the channel are fighting back and promising to stay on air as long as they can.

#TerrorInGeorgia
Emergency statement of Mtavari TV Channel, Georgia. Text reader recommended.
On the bloody Christmas tree outside parliament in Tbilisi, Georgia, protestors are hanging pink coffins with bloody handprints on them.

They allude to widespread rumours about Tbilisi mayor and Georgian Dream party member Kakha Kahladze.

The mind boggles.

#GeorgiaProtests
Tbilisi Christmas tree decorated with pink coffins.
It's the 14th day of protests across Georgia, and they are just not stopping.
Different groups are organizing their own separate marches before arriving at the main protest point outside parliament in Tbilisi, Georgia.

Yesterday there were the architects and then the doctors, earlier there were teachers and the latest are the civil servants.

The banner says "We serve people and state! We defend Georgian constitution"

#GeorgiaProtests
Civil servants marching in Tbilisi Georgia as described in main post.
A delegation from the European Parliament has arrived in Georgia. The MEPs include Rasa Juknevičienė (Lithuania), Michał Szczerba (Poland), Nathalie Loiseau (France), Bernard Guetta (France), Tobias Cremer (Germany), and Reinier van Lanschot (Netherlands).

They are meeting now with opposition parties and later with President Zourabichvilli. The fact they are meeting with the opposition and not the ruling Georgian Dream party speaks volumes.

#StandWithGeorgia

#StandWithGeorgia
Zelenskyy calls for stronger action against Georgia.

"Zelenskyy noted that Georgia has rejected the EU integration and that the Georgian government “is completely under the political control of the Russian Federation.” He said that the US and EU have not been strong enough to withstand Russian influence”

“What strong measures have been taken by the United States of America? What strong measures have the European states taken? I don’t see any, to tell you frankly."

https://civil.ge/archives/643970
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
In Tbilisi, Georgia today, it is the turn of the Tech sector to march to parliament as they announce a 2 day strike.

Here they are protesting in a language all the tech geeks will understand.

While (government..hasBug {. ( )) [
protest ( ) ;
}

#GeorgiaProtests
Protesting tech workers in Tbilisi Georgia hold up sign saying 'while government has bug we protest'
15 days into national protests against the Georgian government, and the Georgian people have endured. They've endured government propaganda and gaslighting, arbitrary detentions, hospitalisations, tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, unidentified special forces and regime thugs.

Still, they protest. Here's how they protested last night, with a beautiful rendition of a traditional polyphonic Georgian song, about endurance, naturally.

Hear the people sing.

#GeorgianProtests
In 2023, young Georgian pianist Giorgi Gigashvili won the prestigious Arthur Rubinstein International Piano Master Competition.

In 2024, he's on the streets of Tbilisi, demanding the release of Tbilisi Conservatoire student Anri Kakhbadze, detained after protesting against the government.

This is becoming the norm in Georgia now. Protest is everybody, everywhere, everyday.

#GeorgiaProtests
Giorgi Gigashvili addressing a crowd of protestors with a megaphone.
"Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Georgia Gareth Ward expressed his dismay at the decisions made by the Georgian Dream party, including those seen as a deviation from Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic path. “We are shocked by the violence used by law enforcement and informal groups,” the Ambassador said in his address in the Georgian language, calling the actions “unacceptable” and urging their immediate cessation."

#StandWithGeorgia

https://civil.ge/archives/643980
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
This is Rasa Juknevičienė meeting with Georgian President Salome Zourabichvilli. Jukneviciene leads a delegation of MEP's visiting Tbilisi, Georgia today.

The delegation plans to meet with opposition leaders, the president, civil society groups and members of independent media in Georgia. Significantly, they have announced no plans to meet with the Georgian government.

For now, everybody is remaining tight lipped about exactly what is being discussed. Watch this space...

#StandWithGeorgia
Tbilisi Georgia. Handshake photo between Zourabichvilli and MEPs as discussed in main post.
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
"Amid the violent crackdown on peaceful demonstrators in Georgia, we can consider the fact that the propaganda arm of the brutal government, Imedi TV, is operated and managed from the UK through the company Hunnewell Partners.

Is it time for the Criminal Security Service to conduct an investigation into the operation from this country in the direction of pro-Russian propaganda and incitement to violence against peaceful demonstrators?"

Blair McDougall,
MP,
U K.

https://formulanews.ge/News/121549
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
In Tbilisi, Georgia tomorrow, there are 14 separate protests planned. Different sectors of society are all planning individual protests - lawyers, psychologists, the wine industry, musicians, d.j.s, H.R, Marketing, P.R...., they're all likely to meet up at the end of the day for the 16th consecutive night of protest outside parliament.

#GeorgiaProtests
#StandWithGeorgia
Poster advertising protests in Tbilisi, Georgia tomorrow as discussed in main post. Text reader recommended for details.
"At the Council of Europe Committee of Ministers, 35 countries said Irakli Kobakhidze’s statement not to pursue the opening of EU accession negotiations and to reject EU financial assistance until 2028 “appears to be in violation of the Georgian Constitution.”

The statement does not refer to Irakli Kobakhidze as “Prime Minister.”

#StandWithGeorgia

https://civil.ge/archives/644192
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
In Tbilisi, Georgia, a delegation of MEPs, led by Lithuania's Rasa Jukneviciene, have been visiting today.

They met with opposition politicians, President Zourabichvilli, civil society organisations, and independent media journalists and reporters.

They have pointedly ignored the governing party and have now headed out to Rustavali Avenue to join the nightly protests.

Georgia is Europe, and Europe is Georgia.
MEPs join protestors on Rustavali Avenue Tbilisi Georgia.
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
"The United States strongly condemns the Georgian Dream party’s ongoing, brutal, and unjustified violence against Georgian citizens, including protesters, members of the media, human rights activists, and opposition figures.We are committed to seeing that senior officials responsible will be subject to visa restrictions.

We are preparing additional actions, including sanctions, to hold to account those who undermine democracy in Georgia."

Matthew Miller,
US State Dept.

https://www.state.gov/pursuing-visa-restrictions-for-individuals-involved-in-undermining-democracy-in-georgia/
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
In Tbilisi, Georgia, today there are at least 17 separate protest actions going on in multiple locations. The city is at a standstill already, and they all seem to be merging into one huge protest.
It's impossible to keep up with them all. I'm keeping an eye out for the d.j.s and the wine makers, and the place where those two meet.

#GeorgiaProtests
#StandWithGeorgia
Protestors block the roads in Tbilisi, Georgia.
This is Lithuanian MEP Rasa Jukneviciene outside parliament in Tbilisi, Georgia. She was one of a delegation of 7 MEPs who joined the protestors in Georgia last night on their 15th night of protests against the illegitimate government.

This act of solidarity meant the world to Georgians. Standing with Georgia. Literally.

🇬🇪❤️🇪🇺❤️🇬🇪

#GeorgiaProtests
#StandWithGeorgia
Rasa Jukneviciene holds her mobile phone aloft with the light on with protestors in Tbilisi Georgia
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
"This is not even funny anymore. The so-called “People’s Power Party" who officially left Georgian Dream Party (GD) after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine to “criticize the West more openly,” rejoined GD for the elections and ran on their list.

Now, they are declaring that they’re leaving GD once again to create a “healthy opposition.”

Mikheil Kavelashvili, GD's presidential candidate, is a member of “People’s Power.”

Anna Gvarishvili,
Georgian journalist.

#Georgia
Georgian Parliamentary Democracy, Georgian Dream style.

In a nutshell, because the opposition parties refuse to attend parliament after an illegitimate election, the ruling Georgian Dream party is splitting itself in half to create two parties so it looks like they have an opposition in parliament.

And the punchline is that the new "People's Power" pretend opposition party is even more right wing and more pro-Russian than the government.

But everything's fine....

#Georgia
The Georgian Tech sector are marching in protest against the government for the second day in Tbilisi, Georgia, and their messaging is on point.

#GeorgiaProtests
#StandWithGeorgia
Tech workers protesting in Tbilisi, Georgia hold a banner saying 'The future is open source. Let's build it together.'
"Community marches are quickly becoming so widespread in Georgia that a Facebook cat lovers group also discusses organizing one. I swear to God.
I feel like it's a matter of principle that us dog lovers do something as well."

Marika Mikiashvili,
Georgia.

#GeorgiaProtests
#StandWithGeorgia
Protestors in Tbilisi, Georgia blocking the streets. There are protestors all the way to the horizon.
The breadth and depth of protests in Tbilisi and other towns and cities across Georgia today is truly astonishing.

It's impossible to mention all the different sectors, but even the local bakeries are joining in.

We Bake Freedom!

#GeorgiaProtests
#StandWithGeorgia
Staff stand outside a bakery in Tbilisi, Georgia with anti government signs. One says 'We bake freedom not oppression'
In Georgia, the government have tried to dismiss the massive protests happening everywhere for over 2 weeks now. They portrayed them as a few students and opposition party activists.

So, to prove them wrong, Georgia is seeing how many different sections of society can have separate protests today.

And it's getting super competitive. I think the construction workers waving flags on top of a massive crane are really going for the prize.

#GeorgiaProtests
#StandWithGeorgia
Two construction workers stand on top of a huge crane in Tbilisi, Georgia. They're waving their arms in the air and flying a huge flag of Georgia.

Photo by Dato Simonia
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
Georgia protests are also happening outside European Parliament in Brussels.
The sign says it all.

#GeorgiaProtests
Georgia Protestors outside European Parliament. One holds a cardboard sign 'When the fuck will you become more than deeply concerned?'
"Today, the Georgian civil society has become consolidated… The idea of a European Georgia has united the nation… And the national accord has been achieved.”

“This enormous protest is solely about achieving new elections, because there is no other peaceful way out… There is no peace without free and fair elections.”

“You cannot jail everyone.”

President Salome Zourabichvili,
Georgia.

#GeorgiaProtests
#StandWithGeorgia
"The Georgian Dream government has lost its mandate, and the people will not relent until it is removed. High-level resignations have escalated, including ambassadors and officials from the Ministry of the Interior. Fed up with government-induced violence and relentless disinformation, even top hosts from pro-government television channels are defecting. Swaths of Georgian companies are also openly condemning the government’s actions."

Will Cathcart.

#GeorgiaProtests

https://thehill.com/opinion/international/5038098-georgia-protests-russia/
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
President of Georgia Salome Zourabichvili affirmed her commitment to staying in office during a press briefing, emphasizing the need for legitimate leadership in the country during this critical moment.

“I’m here, and I will remain here because this country urgently needs a legitimate institution. If anyone in this country truly wants peace, if anyone wants to emerge from this crisis victorious in any form, there is only one path forward—elections."

#Georgia

https://frontnews.ge/en/president-zourabichvili-i-m-not-leaving-georgia-needs-legitimate-institution-right-now/
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
The EU is meeting on Monday to discuss sanctions against Georgia. It's expected that Hungary will veto any EU wide sanctions.
Behind the scenes, Germany, France and Poland and others are said to be getting ready to act in a 'coalition of the willing' to sanction Georgia as individual countries. It has to happen.

#StandWithGeorgia

https://www.spiegel.de/politik/deutschland/georgien-auswaertiges-amt-setzt-sich-fuer-sanktionen-bei-georgien-ein-a-8b7d23be-8a00-4ea3-a3b0-3dea451982c2
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
"We’ve got Georgia on our mind. But we’re not in good company. The protests rocking the small country of Georgia have lost their fragile grip on the Western news agenda, just as events have rocketed beyond the “protests” they were initially headlined as being."

#GeorgiaProtests

https://bylinetimes.com/2024/12/13/georgia-violence-eu-foreign-media/
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Monat her)
It's another big day in Georgia as protests are under way against the election of a new president.

When I say election, the illegitimate government have changed the rules so that the presidency is now decided by a committee of their own members.

The people refuse to recognize the new president. The current president, Salome Zourabichvilli, also refuses to recognize the new president. She is still the only legitimate leader of Georgia, and she's not going anywhere.

#GeorgiaProtests.
Protest banner outside parliament in Tbilisi, Georgia. It says Puppet President.
In Georgia, 'voting' is happening now in parliament for the new president.

Ex-footballer Mikheil Kavelashvili of the Georgian Dream party is the firm favourite to win. That's mostly because the opposition party won't be voting as they refuse to attend the illegitimate parliament. Also, Kavelashvili is the only candidate on the ballot.

When Georgians say their democracy has been hijacked, this is what they mean.

#StandWithGeorgia
Georgian Parliament as a politician casts his vote in the presidential election.
Tbilisi, Georgia is protesting again today.

Among many others there are separate protests by environmental campaigners, mothers, designers, mountain hikers and soccer players.

Every section of society in Georgia has protested against the government.

#GeorgiaProtests
In Tbilisi, Georgia today, three things are happening.

Inside parliament, the illegitimate government are illegitimately voting for a new illegitimate president.

Outside parliament, they are getting ready for the lighting of the Christmas tree in a ceremony this evening which will attempt to convey how completely normal and well adjusted life in Georgia is right now.

Also, outside parliament, thousands of protestors will once again be protesting, against all of this.

#GeorgiaProtests
Christmas tree outside parliament in Tbilisi Georgia. There is a stage set for the opening ceremony with protest signs all around it. One says 'Free all unjustly arrested.
In Tbilisi, Georgia, the illegitimate government are illegitimately voting for an illegitimate new president.

Meanwhile, outside, the current president Salome Zourabichvilli is walking around among the protestors to remind them that she is still the legitimate president, she is still with them, and is not going anywhere.

#GeorgiaProtests
#StandWithGeorgia
President Salome Zourabichvilli walks outside parliament in Tbilisi, Georgia. She has a few bodyguards and is being interviewed by a journalist.
In Tbilisi, Georgia, as one of several protests planned for today, the Mothers march is taking place.

"I didn't give birth to nine kids for them to live in Russia."

#GeorgiaProtests
#StandWithGeorgia
Woman at the front of the mother's march in Tbilisi, Georgia.
She has a megaphone and a sign which says in Georgian ' I didn't give birth to nine kids for them to live in Russia'
Photo : RFERL
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
"Georgian lawmakers have elected Mikheil Kavelashvili, a pro-Russia, hardline critic of the west, as the country’s new president.

Kavelashvili, a former professional football player, has strong anti-western views. In public speeches this year, he has repeatedly alleged that western intelligence agencies are seeking to drive Georgia into war with Russia"

#GeorgiaProtests

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/dec/14/georgias-ruling-party-to-appoint-far-right-loyalist-as-president
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
"The appointment of Mikheil Kavelashvili — a figure lacking education, intellect, and any qualifications for the role — as “President” is nothing short of Bidzina Ivanishvili mocking the Georgian people.
It is a brazen display of arrogance, signaling that if he so desires, he could install a zebra in the Presidential Palace and compel us to call it President. This is purely a demonstration of power."

Anna Gvarishvili,
Georgian journalist.

#StandWithGeorgia
In Georgia, Mikheil Kavelashvili is now illegitimate president. It marks a new low point in a long fall from grace for the former Man City player.

From Manchester, we feel your pain Georgia. He didn't stay at City for long. We knew he was no good, but, honestly, we had no idea.

#GeorgiaProtests

https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/mikheil-kavelashvili-man-city-georgia-30587133#ICID=Android_MENNewsApp_AppShare
Mikheil Kavelashvili playing for Manchester City F.C.
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
#GeorgiaProtests

"Where is the EU? Where is the US? Where is the UK?"

Rory Stewart,
U.K.
“Kavelashvili spent most of his time at Man City facing in the wrong direction, just as he now seems to be doing as the prospective Russia-apologist leader of Georgia."

Simon Curtis,
Author,
Man City fan.

#StandWithGeorgia
Kavelashvili playing for Manchester City.
"There were no real elections in Georgia today. What took place was a farce — just like in Russia, Belarus, and other autocracies.

The only legitimate official in Georgia is President Salome Zourabichvili, elected as a result of free elections.

Ivanishvili continues the state capture."

Rasa Jukneviciene,
MEP,
Lithuania.

#StandWithGeorgia
There's nothing more Christmassy than rows and rows of riot police keeping protestors away from the annual lighting of the Christmas tree.

Happening now outside parliament in Tbilisi, Georgia.

#GeorgiaProtests
Rows of police guard the Christmas tree outside parliament in Tbilisi, Georgia. Parliament is lit up in festive colours and the tree is ready to be lit up.
In Tbilisi, Georgia, the Mayor Kakha Kaladze has postponed the Christmas tree lighting ceremony on Rustaveli Avenue outside parliament.

This is a symbolic defeat for Georgian Dream, who were determined to go ahead with the lighting of the Christmas tree in the middle of huge protests as a gesture that they were in control of the country and everything was just fine.

Everything is far from fine, and this last minute postponement could be a sign they are losing their nerve.

#GeorgiaProtests
In Tbilisi, Georgia, the actual legitimate President Zourabichvilli has just turned up outside parliament at the very moment the mayor has announced the postponement of the Christmas tree lighting ceremony due to massive protests happening all around it.

It's not yet clear what she's doing there. I think she may be gloating, just a little bit.

#GeorgiaProtests
Salome Zourabichvilli outside parliament in Tbilisi Georgia, near the Christmas tree.
This is legitimate President of Georgia Salome Zourabichvilli standing beneath the unlit Christmas tree outside parliament in Tbilisi.

Minutes earlier, the ruling Georgian Dream party had scurried off after abandoning plans to light the tree, due to the massive crowd of protestors who refuse to let the government carry on as everything is normal in Georgia. It's not.

She addressed the crowd of cheering protestors simply :

"I am with you, and you are in my heart."

#GeorgiaProtests
Salome Zourabichvilli addressing a crowd in Tbilisi, Georgia.
"Estonia has expanded its original sanctions list of 11 Georgian officials to include another 14 high-ranking officials, judges as well as the prime minister of Georgia, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced Sunday.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Margus Tsahkna signed a directive serving as the basis for Estonia sanctioning another 14 Georgian officials and judges, including Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze."

#StandWithGeorgia

https://news.err.ee/1609551817/estonia-adds-another-14-georgian-officials-judges-to-sanctions-list
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
In Georgia, the lighting of the Christmas tree was a power move by the ruling Georgian Dream party.

To hold a ceremony and light the tree in the very spot outside parliament where protests had been ongoing for weeks would have sent a powerful message.

So the fact they bottled out last night and cancelled the event, at the last minute, though they had thousands of riot police in place, is a huge PR loss.

Amateur dictatorships don't last.

#GeorgiaProtests
Rows of riot police guard the Christmas tree outside parliament in Tbilisi, Georgia.
Georgia- Polling shows huge loss of support for ruling party.

"When asked, in today's reality, who do you support, the opposition or the "Georgian Dream"? - 65% of the population chooses the opposition, while only 22% of respondents name the "Georgian Dream".

The survey also shows that 65% of the population supports the protests. The research organization also notes that the protest sentiment is higher among young people aged 18-34, with 76% supporting it."

#Georgia.

https://www.radiotavisupleba.ge/a/33239050.html
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
In Georgia, every section of society is protesting against the illegitimate government.
And, really, it's every section of society. It's become fun to see which section comes next.

Yesterday, among many others, there were protests by extreme sports fans and alpinists.
Today we have the art restorers and later a joint march between the Tbilisi section of F.C. Barcelona and Real Madrid fans.

The opposition in Georgia is united in so many ways.

#GeorgiaProtests
Art restorers protest in Tbilisi, Georgia.
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
Mikheil Kavelashvili was 'voted' in as President of Georgia yesterday in a move which is seen as illegitimate by many. Many politicians and leaders globally yesterday reaffirmed that current president Salome Zourabichvilli is still the only legitimate leader in Georgia

So far, the only countries who have acknowledged the Kavelashvili presidency are Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus and Serbia.

Are you spotting the pattern yet?

#StandWithGeorgia

https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2024/12/14/who-is-mikheil-kavelashvili-georgias-new-president
"Lithuania stands with the people of Georgia and their European dream.

In coordination with Estonia, we have expanded the list of sanctioned Georgian politicians by adding 17 more individuals, including Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze.

We will not tolerate the violence& oppression against peaceful protesters, journalists and the opposition.

It's time for joint EU level action now."

Kestutis Budris,
Minister of Foreign Affairs,
Lithuania.

#StandWithGeorgia
Lithuania and Estonia have imposed more sanctions on Georgia, including the Georgian PM Khobakidze.
This is in addition to sanctions already imposed by Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia and Ukraine last week.

These countries are not waiting for a consensus or whatever it is the other countries in the world are waiting for.

It's past time for the world to react to the impending dictatorship in Georgia.

Sanctions. Now!

#SanctionGeorgia
In Georgia, F.C. Barcelona and Real Madrid fans have put their differences to one side and joined together in a march against the illegitimate government.

Footballing rivalries don't get much more heated than Barcelona and Real Madrid. They hate each other, but they hate the Georgian government even more.

#GeorgiaProtests
Protestors in Tbilisi, Georgia with Barcelona and Real Madrid football scarves in a solidarity march against the government.

Photo by Mariam Nikuradze
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
In Tbilisi, Georgia, this is the march of internally displaced people.

These are people who have already lost their homes in Abkhazia and South Ossetia due to the ongoing Russian occupation of those regions of Georgia.

They are determined not to lose the whole country to Russia.

#GeorgiaProtests
Protestors in Tbilisi Georgia stand behind a huge banner representing internally displaced people.
Also in Tbilisi, Georgia, the march of painters and other artists are heading for parliament.

They've gone for a minimalist approach. The flag says simply:

Elections.

#GeorgiaProtests
Painters march in Tbilisi, Georgia with a flag that says in Georgian, 'Elections'
Again in Tbilisi, Georgia, this is the march of the Election Observers. They are marching to parliament under the banner:

"We Demand New Elections"

Read that again, slowly. This is Georgia now.

#GeorgiaProtests
Election Observers march through the streets of Tbilisi under a huge banner that says "We demand new elections."
Today in Georgia we've seen artists and painters, Barcelona and Real Madrid fans, art historians and restorers, internally displaced people, and election observers all having separate protest marches on parliament.

Every section of Georgian society is protesting against the government

Tomorrow in Georgia it's the turn of the Grandparents. They're marching for their grandchildren's European future.

Georgian society is becoming unstoppable.

#GeorgiaProtests
Popular Georgian folk band the Trio Mandili have been entered into the 'debate' over whether Georgian integration into Europe will threaten the traditional Georgian way of life.

American right wing nob Jackson Hinckle used their photo on Twitter as an example of traditional Georgian culture. Trio Mandili quickly responded on community notes to say they welcome Georgia's integration into the E.U. and have even been at many of the Pro EU protests in Georgia recently.

LOL.

#GeorgiaProtests
Trio Mandili pose in traditional Georgian dress with mandolin in front of a beautiful mountain range in Georgia
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
"We are having an unusual Russian winter in Georgia but we will have a Georgian spring !!!"

Salome Zourabichvilli,
President of Georgia.
(Talking about the weather. Maybe...)

#GeorgiaProtests
#StandWithRussia
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said Monday Brussels had put forward a list of Georgians to sanction over a crackdown on pro-Western protesters, but Hungary was set to block the measures.

“We have proposed the list for sanctions for these people who are… using really force and violence against the opposition,” Kallas said ahead of a meeting of EU foreign ministers.

“But everybody needs to agree to the list, and we are not there yet.”

#SanctionGeorgia

https://www.firstpost.com/world/eu-foreign-ministers-fail-to-agree-on-sanctions-against-georgian-authorities-13844892.html#amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&aoh=17343444274664&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&ampshare=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.firstpost.com%2Fworld%2Feu-foreign-ministers-fail-to-agree-on-sanctions-against-georgian-authorities-13844892.html
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
In Georgia, the illegitimate government has been in power for just 10 days.
They have wasted no time in passing a head spinning amount of repressive laws primarily aimed at crushing protests on the street, and any dissent within the civil service.

They've even passed a law on 'Preventive Detention' so they are able to detain anyone who they think might be about to commit a crime.

If it sounds like Minority Report, that's because it is exactly like Minority Report.

https://publika.ge/lazeri-nighabi-da-skhva-cvlilebebi-ra-sheicvala-administraciul-kodeqsshi/
In Tbilisi, Georgia, today there is another full programme of protests from different sections of civil society.

Today it's the turn of couriers, local neighbourhood associations, grandparents, filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts, literary figures, and Airbnb hosts to make the point that every section of society in Georgia are against the illegitimate government.

#GeorgiaProtests
Poster advertising different protest marches in Tbilisi, Georgia today as discussed in main post.
Under huge pressure from weeks of massive protests, the Georgian government are now being reasonable.

Well, they're trying, but the gaslighting is baked in.

#GeorgiaProtests
Georgian government press release showing PM Khobakidze standing at a lectern.


"We are a government elected by the people, and we must talk to the people. We are ready for talks with both our supporters and those that may have sided with the radical opposition."
The Grandparents march in Tbilisi, Georgia is underway. They're marching to parliament to demand that their grandchildren's future is in the E.U.

#GeorgiaProtests
Grandparents march in Tbilisi Georgia. A grandmother is holding a sign saying 'The future of my grandkids can't be trusted to you, Bidzina!'
"Today I reiterated in the clearest terms to Georgian Dream representative Maka Botshorishvili that police violence and arbitrary arrests in Georgia are unacceptable.

The UK will consider all options to ensure those responsible are held accountable."

Stephen Doughty,
Minister for European Affairs,
U.K.

#SanctionGeorgia
In the E.U. Foreign Affairs Council meeting, the proposed sanctions against Georgia have just been vetoed by Hungary and Slovakia.

The next E.U. move against Georgia is
visa restrictions, which just need a majority vote.

Sanctions from individual countries are being discussed by Germany, France and Poland and others in the E.U. in a 'coalition of the willing'.

#SanctionGeorgia

https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2024/12/16/hungary-and-slovakia-veto-eu-sanctions-on-georgian-officials-as-protests-continue
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
Outside parliament in Tbilisi, Georgia, the Christmas tree has been lit up tonight without a ceremony as there are still too many protestors outside parliament.

Georgians aren't too bothered either way. All they want for Christmas is a new government.

#GeorgiaProtests
Christmas tree lit up outside parliament in Tbilisi, Georgia.
Protestors in Tbilisi, Georgia made a point of stopping outside the Hungarian Embassy today as Orban followed up on his promise to veto all the proposed EU sanctions against Georgia.

#GeorgiaProtests
#SanctionGeorgia
Protestors outside the Hungarian Embassy in Tbilisi, Georgia. They have Georgia flags and a sign saying 'Sanction Sanction'
In Tbilisi, Georgia, The Battle Of The Christmas Tree continues.

#GeorgiaProtests
A sign placed next to the lit christmas tree outside parliament in Tbilisi, Georgia.
'No Christmas lights can brighten the darkness of Ivanishvili's autocracy! True light shines only in freedom!'
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
In a bid to pretend everything is normal in Tbilisi, Georgia, the authorities have turned on the Christmas lights, hoping the festive atmosphere will distract from the huge nightly protests.

It's not really having the desired effect. Now we can better see the thousands of people gather nightly around parliament.

It's the same protests, but with a cheery festive glow.

#GeorgiaProtests
Protestors in Tbilisi, Georgia lit up by a lovely Christmas display of lights overhead.
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
In Tbilisi, Georgia today it's the turn of the hospitality workers to march on parliament in protest against the illegitimate government.

What's on the menu today, Chef?

Starter: Free all unjustly arrested.

Main Course: Free and fair elections

Dessert: European Integration

#GeorgiaProtests
A protesting chef in Tbilisi Georgia holds up a menu.
Starter: free all unjustly arrested 
Main course: free and fair elections
Dessert: European Integration
Photo via Net Gazeti
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
"Tina Bokuchava, leader of one of Georgia's main opposition parties, the United National Movement (UNM), has said targeted sanctions by the European Union would "mount tremendous pressure" on Georgian state institutions involved in the crackdown on pro-EU protestors in the capital Tbilisi.

"We also count on the west standing by the Euro-Atlantic aspirations of the Georgian people and moving beyond statements of concern to concrete actions against this government."

https://www.rte.ie/news/2024/1217/1486947-georgia-tina-bokuchava-opposition-protests/
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
In Georgia, more than 500 companies have signed a statement demanding re-elections and the release of individuals arrested during the protests.

The companies are across a variety of industries, and include some big names: CocaCola, McDonald's, GPI holding, PSP, Magticom, and Spar.

Via Publika Georgia.

#GeorgiaProtests
Logos of Georgian businesses who have signed statement against the government.
"If we do not do enough to support the Georgian people at their greatest hour of need, it will only feed into the Russian narrative that, when push comes to shove, the West cannot be trusted, and that the only option for countries like Georgia is to reconcile themselves to Moscow.

Reclaiming Georgia will give Putin a nice “consolation prize” for his losses in Syria, and a potential bargaining chip in negotiations with the West over Ukraine."

Alexandra Hall Hall.

https://bylinetimes.com/2024/12/17/the-west-will-regret-abandoning-the-georgian-people-to-the-clutches-of-russia/
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
"A number of our interlocutors voiced concern that Georgia was falling victim to the same Russian methods as Lukashenka’s regime has employed in Belarus.

Our mission felt that darkness was descending on this beleaguered but freedom-loving country. The West has a responsibility to act before it is too late."

Statement on Georgia,
McCain Institute,
U.S.

#GeorgiaProtests

https://www.mccaininstitute.org/resources/press-releases/mccain-institute-leads-post-election-mission-to-tbilisi-georgia/
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
In Tbilisi, Georgia, the universities are taking a turn marching to parliament to demand an end to the illegitimate government.

This sign is 🔥

#GeorgiaProtests
#ProtectDemocracy
Student protestor in Tbilisi Georgia holds up a sign saying 'I didn't study Russian hybrid war to live in it.'

Photo: Publika Georgia
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
This is Tbilisi, Georgia and yet another section of civil society is on a march to parliament to protest against the illegitimate government.

'Historians - on the right side of history!'

#GeorgiaProtests
Historians on the right side of history march in Tbilisi Georgia, led by a man in a traditional Georgian knight costume.
This is Tbilisi, Georgia, and the University Society march on parliament.
Imperial College, Cambridge, U.K. is represented here. Since 2015, hundreds of Georgians have received Chevening scholarships to study in the U.K. as part of the Wardrop programme. This has been suspended by the U.K. in light of recent events in Georgia.

There's a lot on the line in Georgia.

#GeorgiaProtests
Tbilisi, Georgia. A University Society protestor marches with an Imperial College, Cambridge sign.
This morning Salome Zourabichvilli, the only legitimate President of Georgia, addressed the European Parliament in Strasbourg.

She told the full truth about the illegitimacy of the recent elections, the state capture by the Georgian Dream party, the violent repression of protest, and the detainment of opposition members.

She linked this all back to Russia's hybrid war and made it all very clear. They're not just coming for Georgia, they're coming for all of us.

Wake Up!

#GeorgiaProtests
Georgian President Salome Zourabichvilli standing at the lectern of European Parliament giving an address
“If Georgia falls under Russian control… the stakes are very high. This struggle is part of the larger confrontation between Europe and Russian aggression.

After Russia lost in Syria… failed to impose itself in Ukraine… and Moldova… should it win in Georgia?”

Salome Zourabichvilli,
Georgian President,
European Parliament Address.

#StandWithGeorgia

https://civil.ge/archives/646004
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
"The current crisis has transcended the boundaries of party politics and is posing an imminent social and economic threat to the country. An urgent de-escalation of the situation is necessary. The most pragmatic way to de-escalate is to schedule new elections and release those arrested during the recent processes before the New Year."

Statement by business association Free Business Georgia, signed by over 800 Georgian companies.

#StandWithGeorgia
In Georgia, the statement from the business association Free Business Georgia calling for new elections and the release of political prisoners has really taken off.

Over 800 businesses have signed it, including McDonalds and Coca-Cola.

Georgian businesses are not well known for their political activism, but they've had enough. As Toyota Center Tbilisi founder and director Irakli Gurchiani said:

“Absolutely no one cares anymore what PM Irakli Kobakhidze threatens.”

#GeorgiaProtests
Logos of some of the Georgian businesses who have signed the Free Business Georgia statement
"Anti Russian Uprising !"

In Georgia, anti government protests are, quite literally, everywhere. This is washing hung out to dry in Batumi.

#GeorgiaProtests
A white sheet is hung on a washing line between buildings in Batumi, Georgia along with other clothes. it says in Georgian 'Anti Russian Uprising.
In Georgia, it's another day, and another march on parliament. This time it's the parents of disabled people, demanding a European future with European rights for their children.

Who would deny them?

#GeorgiaProtests
#StandWithGeorgia
March in Tbilisi, Georgia under the banner 'Parents of individuals with disabilities demand European future'
‘Give me back my voice. Give me back my European future.’

'For 21 days,Georgians have peacefully protested against stolen elections and Russian-style repression

Their demand is clear:free & fair elections to preserve democracy. Georgians will not stop until it’s achieved!'

Salome Zourabichvilli
President of Georgia,
European Parliament Address.

#StandWithGeorgia

https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20241217IPR26009/georgia-president-zourabichvili-calls-on-eu-to-step-up-and-defend-its-values
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
In Georgia, riot police at the protests went hungry after a contract for 35,000 packed lunches went unfilled as all Georgian catering firms refused to provide them.

It's the first taste of what mass civil disobedience can do. Georgian chefs have other dishes on their menu.

#GeorgiaProtests
Georgian chef at a protest in Tbilisi, Georgia. Hes holding a menu that has the release of political prisoners, free and fair elections, and European Integration on it.
A couple of days ago, the business association Free Business Georgia issued an open statement calling for new elections and the release of political detainees.

It has now been signed by a 1000 businesses with over 800 signatures waiting to be verified. It has some big international names like PWC, Coca cola, Spar, McDonalds. Yes, even McDonalds in Georgia is calling for new elections.

Georgia is really putting the 'mass' into mass civil disobedience.

#GeorgiaProtests
Statement from Free Business Georgia calling for new elections. Text reader recommended.
In Georgia, the mass civil disobedience against the illegitimate government has gone so mainstream that even the corporate world is jumping on board.

The 2 largest commercial banks in Georgia, TBC and Bank of Georgia, have joined forces to create a fund of 5,000,000 GEL (approximately $1,800,000) to assist those injured during the protests and support small and medium-sized businesses.

Georgian civic society is unstoppable.

#GeorgiaProtests
Poster advertising a 5 million Gel protest assistance fund from Georgian banks.
"The Georgian Dream party is dragging Georgians away from their chosen path to Euro-Atlantic integration and towards the axis of aggressors intent on undermining the democratic world order.”

“Should Georgian Dream prevail in seizing power, the party would turn Georgia into a venue for power projection and economic opportunity not only for its Russian patrons, but also for China and Iran, with whom Georgian Dream has become increasingly close."

U.S. Helsinki Commission

https://civil.ge/archives/646323
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
In Georgia, the ruling Georgian Dream party pride themselves on being the guardians of true Georgian values and culture. They are the only ones who can safeguard Georgian heritage against the radical foreign backed opposition protestors threatening the Georgian way of life.

Of course, it's total bullshit. This is why tomorrow the traditional Khorumi dancers of Georgia are marching on parliament where they will perform this most ancient and beautiful Georgian dance of defiance.

#GeorgiaProtests
Poster advertising Khorumi dancers march on parliament in Tbilisi Georgia.
In Georgia, the protests and marches continue, along with the diversity of the protestors . Today's schedule includes the Gurians, fathers, gamers, medics, parents and basketball players.

Also, it's been confirmed the gamers are not doing a virtual march but they're actually leaving the house. It's that important!

#GeorgiaProtests
Poster advertising marches in Tbilisi, Georgia today as discussed in post.
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
Protests outside parliament in Tbilisi, Georgia have been happening every single night for 3 weeks now, and they show no signs of stopping.

They're already making plans for New Year's Eve, and legitimate President of Georgia Salome Zourabichvilli has just announced she will be joining them.

Oh, and keep an eye out for the 29th - it's singles night at the protests. I'm not even joking.

#GeorgiaProtests
#StandWithGeorgia

"The UK has sanctioned five senior individuals responsible for violent attacks against journalists and peaceful protestors in Georgia, in coordinated action with the United States.

Georgia’s authorities began a systematic crackdown on demonstrations, civil society, media and opposition figures following public opposition to Georgian Dream’s decision to pause the country’s move towards a European future."

#SanctionGeorgia

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-sanctions-georgian-officials-responsible-for-brutal-crackdown-on-media-and-protestors
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (4 Wochen her)
Finally, the U.K. has sanctioned five Georgian officials directly responsible for the violent crackdown on protests. It includes the Minister of Internal Affairs.

Vakhtang Gomelauri - Minister of Internal Affairs
Aleksandre Darakhvelidze - Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs
Sulkhan Tamazashvili - Tbilisi Police Department Director
Zviad Kharazishvili - Chief of the Special Tasks Department
Mileri Lagazauri - Deputy Head of the Special Tasks Department

#SanctionGeorgia
#GeorgiaProtests
The U.K. government sanctions against Georgian officials is also in coordination with the U.S.

Presumably the U.S. will be sanctioning the same officials, but they haven't yet made their announcement.

#SanctionGeorgia
In Georgia, protestors have been reclaiming the civic space from the illegitimate government in so many different and creative ways.

Even the New Year's Eve celebrations in Tbilisi have been transformed into a Magical New Year's Eve Protest with legitimate President Salome Zourabichvilli as guest of honour!

Her term ends on 29th December. But that's just according to the government. The people are saying she stays president until new elections happen.

#GeorgiaProtests
Poster for New Year's Eve in Tbilisi, Georgia featuring the Christmas tree outside parliament and a photo of President Zourabichvilli superimposed on top of it.

Text reads President Zourabchivili joins citizens initiative and invites everyone to welcome 2025 in Tbilisi this New Year's Eve.

Magical New Year's Eve Protest.
Just in case you're wondering why the Georgians are so certain their government are illegitimate and the last election was rigged, it's because of all the evidence....

#GeorgiaProtests
The U.S. has issued Magnitsky sanctions against Georgia's Minister of Internal Affairs, Vakhtang Gomelauri and Deputy Head of the Special Task Department, Mirza Kezevadze.

#SanctionGeorgia
#GeorgiaProtests

https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy2759
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
Somewhere in Georgia there's a poor admin worker trying to keep up with this post from Free Business Georgia. It's a statement from businesses calling for new elections and the end of detaining protestors.

There are about 1500 businesses already signed up, and over 1000 businesses waiting for their signature to be verified. And they just don't stop.

#GeorgiaProtests

https://freebusiness.ge/
Screenshot from Free Business Georgia website, as discussed in main post.
The illegitimate Georgian government has responded to U.S. and U.K. sanctions in typical illegitimate Georgian government style.

The sanctioned Interior Minister Vakhtang Gomelauri has been promoted to Deputy Prime Minister, and the sanctioned heads of the police command have all been given the Award of Honour.

If it sounds like a ludicrous bravado move which the Russians would do, that's because it is.

#SanctionGeorgia

https://civil.ge/archives/646816
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
Council of Europe head Alain Berset concludes his visit to Georgia.

“I am not here to legitimize elections, that is the responsibility of other competent institutions.The key reason of my visit was to meet with everyone, as dialogue is the cornerstone of any functional democracy.”

#Georgia

https://civil.ge/archives/646920
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
Alain Berset, Secretary General of the Council of Europe, has been on a 3 day visit to Georgia.

His visit has gone down really badly with Georgians. While the legitimacy or otherwise of the recent elections is not within his remit, they feel he could have done and said a lot more to criticise the government and their democratic backsliding.

Georgians feel that all his visit has actually done is give legitimacy to an illegitimate government. This was a diplomatic failure.

#GeorgiaProtests
"Let me say this one more time, louder this time: Georgians have been in the streets since November 28 to repeal the Russian puppet regime, not just the Russian law. End of story."

Anna Gvarishvili,
Georgian journalist.

#GeorgiaProtests
EU propose visa restrictions on Georgian government officials.

"Today we are taking action to hold Georgian authorities accountable for the violent repression of peaceful protests. This sends a clear message to the Georgian authorities that they cannot repress opposition voices or curtail freedom of expression without consequences."

Kaja Kallas,
EU Foreign Affairs.

#SanctionGeorgia

https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_24_6547
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
"Georgia's so called PM Kobakhidze now says the state will compensate all financial losses of the U.S. and U.K. sanctioned persons.

This is a defiant, open anti-American & anti-British stance and disregard to human rights, but also an attempt to prevent regime defections in fear of sanctions. Which means that sanctions have a serious potential to work, and we need more of them."

Marika Mikiashvili,
Georgia.

#SanctionGeorgia
In Georgia, Aleksi Tirkia, the 22-year-old that fell into a coma after a tear gas capsule hit him in the head on one of the first nights of protests in Tbilisi, has been discharged from the hospital.

Apparently, he can't wait to get back to the protests. Georgians are unstoppable.

#GeorgiaProtests
Aleksi Tirkia, injured in the forehead with blood all over his face.
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)

Denis Buckley hat dies geteilt

“I met with the delegation from the Council of Europe, who seem a bit confused and lack a full understanding of the situation here. I clarified that it’s not within their mandate or right to appoint a commission to an illegitimate government, especially not one considering “Russian law”.

From today, Secretary General Alain Berset will gain a clearer picture of the lies and provocations that define Georgian Dream's actions.”

Salome Zourabichvilli,
President of Georgia.

#Georgia
"In our shared spirit of democracy and respect for human rights, we proudly declare: Glory to Ukraine. Long Live Belarus. Georgia belongs in Europe."

Senator Ben Cardin,
Chair,
U.S. Foreign Relations Committee.

https://www.foreign.senate.gov/press/dem/release/chair-cardin-leads-transatlantic-counterparts-in-pledging-continued-support-for-ukraine-belarus-democratic-forces-and-the-georgian-people
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
According to this, the 'Deep State' controls not just America but the whole world and only Donald Trump can save us by de-oligarchising everywhere, but he's got a massive fight on his hands and the rest of us in the free world need to support him.

Georgian PM Irakli Khobakidze is either a very confused man or he's just in it for the lols.

#SanctionGeorgia

https://civil.ge/archives/646989
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
This is Gori, Georgia, a small city close to the Russian occupied territory of South Ossetia.

They're burning an effigy of Putin in protest of, well, everything.

#GeorgiaProtests
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
This was brought up in the House of Commons in the U.K. by MP Blair McDougal earlier this week, but hasn't had much attention.

Georgian minigarch Irakli Rukladze is the director of U.K. firm Hunnewell. He runs Georgian propaganda T.V. channel Imedi. He is responsible for the main media arm of the illegitimate, human rights trampling Georgian Dream party.

He does all of this from the comfort of his London home and is also a U.S. citizen.

WTF.

#SanctionGeorgia

https://www.hunnewellpartners.com/imedi/
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
"Georgian Foreign Ministry summoned the British Ambassador to Georgia, Gareth Ward, over the sanctions imposed on December 19 by the United Kingdom on senior Georgian officials for their role in a systematic crackdown on peaceful demonstrators, civil society, the media, and opposition figures.

Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili expressed concern about the sanctions, telling the Ambassador that “such actions damage the friendly relations between the two countries”

https://civil.ge/archives/647159
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
OSCE Report on Georgia Elections

“Numerous issues noted in our final report negatively impacted the integrity of these elections and eroded public trust in the process."

"To safeguard the democratic principles currently at stake in Georgia, it is imperative that the authorities urgently address all concerns.”

Eoghan Murphy,
Georgia Mission Head,
OSCE.

https://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/58405
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
What do lawyers, nursery teachers, energy sector workers, international relations students, autistic people, tech workers, and vegans have in common?

Oh, nothing much. That's just the different groups of society that marched on parliament in protest of their illegitimate government in Tbilisi, Georgia, and that's just today.

When I say everybody is protesting in Georgia, I really do mean EVERYBODY is protesting in Georgia.

#GeorgiaProtests
Protestors with Georgia flags outside Parliament in Tbilisi Georgia.

Photo by Anna Gvarishvili
In Tbilisi, Georgia, Free University and Agricultural University students have blocked the main highway into Tbilisi. They are starting from their university campus and will, eventually, in their own time, be marching to parliament.

This is just one of about 22 protest marches planned for today. And that's just in the capital of Tbilisi.

#GeorgiaProtests
#StandWithGeorgia
Thousands of protestors in Tbilisi, Georgia block the road in an underpass on the main highway.
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
Today, as well as students, tattoo artists, the fashion industry, traditional folk dancers, and others, representatives of all the different regions of Georgia are marching on parliament in Tbilisi. There are Rachvelians, Kartlelians, Megrelians, Svanetis, Adjarians, Ingaretians, and more.

At this point they're all mixed in and there's no way of knowing where one march ends and another begins. It's just one big glorious mess of Georgians from everywhere, all together.

#GeorgiaProtests
Protestors on the streets of Tbilisi, Georgia.
Traditional Georgian folk dance is old. Older than anyone really knows. Archeologists find 4,000 year old pottery that has depictions of folk dancers on it.

The Khorumi is a special dance. It's a sacred 'warrior' dance that tells the story of armies repelling invaders from Georgia.

And, right now, in 2024, the Khorumi dancers of Georgia are dancing towards parliament in Tbilisi to repel their Russian backed illegitimate government out of Georgia.

Video Mariam Geguchadze.

#GeorgiaProtests
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
"Had a good call with Georgia’s President Zourabichvili. In this moment of political crisis, she is the only legitimate leader of the country. I agree with her—the only way forward for Georgia is a new election. The people of Georgia deserve a government that represents them."

Rep. Joe Wilson,
Chair,
U.S. Helsinki Commission

#GeorgiaProtests
Tbilisi, Georgia is on it's 24th consecutive day of protests. Today there were over 20 separate marches with an estimated 200,000 people. They danced the traditional Georgian folk dance the Khorumi outside parliament and it was magical.

Meanwhile, the Mayor of Tbilisi, doing his best to pretend everything is just fine, organized a Christmas concert. Nobody turned up.

Nobody, as in, literally, nobody.

#GeorgiaProtests
Stage of Christmas concert in Tbilisi Georgia. A band plays to zero people.
Georgian protestors have taken over the physical civic space in Tbilisi to the point where they can perform traditional Georgian war dance the Khorumi in front of parliament to cheering crowds of hundreds of thousands of people and there is literally fuck all the illegitimate government can do about it.

#GeorgiaProtests
Two Georgian dancers in a pose outside parliament in Tbilisi.
Meanwhile the ruling Georgian Dream party have set up a Christmas village in Tbilisi in a desperate attempt to distract from the hundreds of thousands of protestors on the streets day and night and to try to pretend everything is totally normal.

It hasn't worked. Not a single person turned up for the Saturday night free film screening. Not even when they were showing Elf.

#GeorgiaProtests
Empty outdoor cinema at the Christmas village in Tbilisi, Georgia.
This is how the Christmas tree outside parliament in Tbilisi Georgia looks this evening. It's festooned with banners from the 20+ protest marches that took place today.
It's not a typo. 20+ protest marches, in one day.

#GeorgiaProtests
Christmas tree outside parliament in Tbilisi Georgia is decorated with many protest banners and signs.
Last night in Georgia, something very special happened.Professional Georgian folk dancers led thousands of Georgians through the streets of Tbilisi all the way to parliament. They were dancing the Khorumi, an ancient and sacred warrior's victory march.

In a nutshell, they summoned the spirits of the ancestors to rid their country of the invaders which this time around are the Russia backed illegitimate government.

We've been here so many times before.

#GeorgiaProtests
Khorumi dancers outside parliament in Tbilisi Georgia. A woman stands on the shoulders of a man. She is waving a Georgian flag and is silhouetted and illuminated by the lights of the Christmas tree and decorative lights. To the right an EU flag is waved.
Last night's Khorumi dancers outside parliament in Tbilisi, Georgia have turbocharged the protestors in a way that the illegitimate Georgian government doesn't fully understand yet. But they will.

#GeorgiaProtests
Illustration of a Georgian Khorumi Dancer. They are are wearing a traditional long white costume and a blue headscarf. They are holding a Georgian flag over their head
In Tbilisi, Georgia, among many other demonstrations today, it's the demonstration of motorcycles.
The motorcyclists are just like every other section of Georgian society. They are revved up for change.

#GeorgiaProtests
Poster advertising a motorcycle demonstration in Tbilisi Georgia. A rider on a classic motorcycle rides along with a Georgian flag. Alongside him, a rider on a scooter rides along with an EU flag.
There are some strong rumours that the U.S. Senate is getting ready to pass the 'Megobari Act', a resolution that supports the Georgian people while discouraging the democratic backsliding of the Georgian government.

#StandWithGeorgia
Statement from Chairman Wilson of the US Helsinki Commission.



In the Georgian language Megobari means friend and this bill reflects the powerful friendship and partnership between the US and the Georgian people. The Megobari act is designed to support the Georgian peoples longstanding democratic and Euro Atlantic aspirations and ensure their government remains accountable to it's citizens and those principles.
In his latest massive failure to read the room, in a briefing today Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze once again threatened President Salome Zourabichvili:

"On December 29, she will have to leave office. Let’s see where she continues her life—behind bars or outside them."

#GeorgiaProtests
Phot of Irakli Khobakidze with quote as in main post. From Civil Georgia
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
In Tbilisi, Georgia last night, the ruling Georgian Dream party opened a Christmas village. The Georgian people are too busy protesting and so angry at the government that nobody went.

Well, that's not strictly true. Georgian Nikoloz Humonodi was there. He even took some amazing self portraits that fall somewhere in the space between performance art and massive pisstake.

#Georgia
Photos by Nikoloz Humonodi posing in various places in a deserted Christmas village in Tbilisi, Georgia
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
In Tbilisi, Georgia, today, by my count there are 'only' 6 separate marches on parliament. The Kakhetians, French speakers, English teachers, Erasmus students, Motorcyclists, and Army veterans.

It seems they are saving some space outside parliament for 9 p.m. Tbilisi time when President Salome Zourabichvilli is due to address the protestors and the nation.

What she has to say is being kept under wraps, so, watch that space.

#GeorgiaProtests
Thousands of protestors from the region of Khaketi march through the streets of Tbilisi towards parliament.
How to explain this one. In Tbilisi, Georgia there's a Christmas village the government has put on in an attempt to distract from the huge protests happening nightly.
The people are boycotting the Christmas village. Last night it was completely empty.

Tonight President Zourabichvilli took to the stage at the Christmas village in front of a huge crowd of protestors, said 'This space is ours now' and left, to thunderous applause.

#GeorgiaProtests
Presidential Zourabichvilli addresses the crowd at the Christmas village in Tbilisi Georgia
After the ruling Georgian Dream stole her first sound system and jammed the signal on the replacement microphone, Georgian President Salome Zourabichvilli had to postpone her address to the protestors outside parliament in Tbilisi Georgia this evening. She will give her full address from the palace tomorrow.

The thousands of disappointed protestors saw her off home with a rousing chorus of the Georgian national anthem.

#GeorgiaProtests
Earlier this evening, President of Georgia Salome Zourabichvilli tried to address a crowd of thousands of demonstrators in Tbilisi.

Just because they are that petty, the ruling Georgian Dream party jammed her microphone so most of the crowd couldn't hear what she had to say.

The Georgian Dream are petty, they're also not very bright. She has effortlessly outsmarted them by going online and posting what she had to say. It's in the posts below. 👇

#GeorgiaProtests
Salome Zourabichvilli at a microphone trying to address a crowd in Tbilisi Georgia.
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
"Election has not taken place: There is only one formula to resolve the current crisis, one universally recognized in every democratic country - new elections!
I invite Ivanishvili, Kobakhidze, Papuashvili, and other involved parties to Orbeliani Palace to negotiate.

The only topic: when and how to hold new elections!"

Salome Zourabichvilli.

#Georgia

/1👇
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
"I am ready to sit down and find a solution on how to schedule elections, but the decision must be agreed upon by the 29th.

By the 29th, we all have the opportunity to move this country forward - making Georgia a global example of democracy, reconciliation, and progress!"

Salome Zourabichvilli,
President of Georgia.

#GeorgiaProtests

/2👇
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
"Georgia never surrenders when it stands for what is right. And Georgia is right - you are right!

I will remain loyal - loyal to this country and to the Constitution to which I swore an oath six years ago.

Though trampled underfoot, this Constitution stands firm, just like Georgia.

I will uphold it and remain faithful to it!"

Salome Zourabichvilli,
President of Georgia.

#GeorgiaProtests

/3👇
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
"I am, and will remain, loyal to the people—not just those here today, but all Georgians.

Let no one doubt that I am, and will always be, everyone’s President!!

I will remain loyal to the Georgian Army—its veterans, soldiers, and steadfast partners who built and strengthened it.

I am, and will remain, its Commander-in-Chief!"

Salome Zourabichvili,
President of Georgia.

#GeorgiaProtests

/4 Fin
Aerial shot of Salome Zourabichvilli addressing a huge crowd of protestors in Tbilisi, Georgia.

Photo by Ezz Graber
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
"They threaten to jail her.
Does she look scared or confused to you?
She is so clearly rejoicing in history in making, fully comprehending her role in it, and feeling the ever-increasing public gratitude and love.

Born to be here and now.

Our only legitimate President, Salome Zourabichvilli !"

Marika Mikiashvili,
Georgia.

#GeorgiaProtests
Shot of a very determined looking Salome Zourabichvilli attending a mass demonstration in Tbilisi, Georgia.
Day 26 of protests in Georgia brings 11 sperate protests to Tbilisi.

The desire to be rid of the illegitimate government is so clear that even the Philosophers are in agreement.

'I think, therefore I am, marching to parliament.'

#GeorgiaProtests
Poster advertising 11 protests in Tbilisi Georgia today. Text reader recommended
In Tbilisi Georgia, the protests just go on and on, like an unstoppable river of people.

Today, the oncology patients are taking their turn to march on parliament in protest against their illegitimate government.

"I defeated cancer, I'll defeat the Georgian Dream too."

#GeorgiaProtests
Oncology patients protesting in Tbilisi Georgia
In Georgia, President Salome Zourabichvilli has just given an address from her office which is the same as the one she tried to give to protestors last night before the ruling Georgian Dream party jammed her microphone.

She stated that the country has two options: either Ivanishvili and the regime compromise on new elections now before December 29 (the sham inauguration of the new puppet President), or the all-encompassing crisis deepens and the regime collapses.

#GeorgiaProtests
Salome Zourabichvilli addresses the nation of Georgia from her offices. She's sat in front of Georgia and EU flags.
"Trump should judge Georgian Dream for what it is. A group of corrupt thugs who want to smash Georgia’s constitution and people into obedience in order that they might better enrich themselves and better serve American adversaries in Moscow and Beijing."

https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/beltway-confidential/3262507/trump-unlikely-bow-bidzina-ivanishvili-georgia-corruption/
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
In Georgia, the ruling party are absolutely counting on Trump to turn a blind eye to their 'democratic backsliding' and their plan to sell most of Georgia to Russia, Iran and China. I think their plan is hinging on Trump not realising that Georgia can mean a country as well as a state.

Meanwhile, on Fox News...

https://www.foxnews.com/world/former-georgian-prime-minister-says-nations-election-rigged-written-moscow
"The level of the authorities’ violence against largely peaceful protesters is shocking, blatantly retaliatory, and violates Georgia’s domestic laws and international norms."

"The scale of the police ill-treatment of protesters and the failure of Georgian authorities to hold them accountable for it indicates they either authorized or condoned the violence.”

Hugh Williamson,
Human Rights Watch.

#GeorgiaProtests
#TerrorInGeorgia

https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/12/23/georgia-brutal-police-violence-against-protesters
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (3 Wochen her)
"President Salome Zourabichvili is the voice of European Georgia. For many, she is the last legitimate power."

Professor Kornely Kakachia,
Georgian Institute of Politics.

#GeorgiaProtests

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/dec/27/lets-see-who-will-be-leaving-georgias-presidential-standoff-nears-crunch-point
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (2 Wochen her)
U.S. Sanctions Georgian Dream Chairman Bidzina Ivanishvili.

"Ivanishvili is being designated for being responsible for or complicit in, or having directly or indirectly engaged or attempted to engage in, actions or policies that undermine democratic processes or institutions in the United States or abroad, for or on behalf of, or for the benefit of, directly or indirectly, the Government of the Russian Federation."

#SanctionGeorgia

https://www.state.gov/sanctioning-georgian-dream-founder-bidzina-ivanishvili/
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (2 Wochen her)
If there is one person in Georgia who deserves to be sanctioned, it's Georgian Dream chairman Bidzina Ivanishvili. He's the Russian backed billionaire puppet master behind the whole show.

And the U.S. have just sanctioned him. Yes!

#SanctionGeorgia
#GeorgiaProtests
Photo from Civil Georgia of Bidzina Ivanishvili with the headline 'US Treasury imposed asset freeze of Ivanishvili citing actions that undermine democratic processes on behalf of or in the interests of Russia.
"The U.S. is sanctioning Bidzina Grigoris Dze Ivanishvili, the founder and honorary chairman of Georgian Dream. His actions have enabled human rights abuses and undermined the democratic and European future of the Georgian people for the benefit of the Russian Federation."

Matthew Miller,
U.S. State Department Spokesperson.

#SanctionGeorgia

https://civil.ge/archives/648597
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (2 Wochen her)
Protest.24 is a Georgian organisation that has been trying to keep tabs on the amount of anti government protests in Georgia.

I say they are trying because it's impossible to keep tabs on all the protests happening across Georgia. They have been happening for over 30 days in over 40 towns and cities.

The Georgia Protests are massive.

#GeorgiaProtests
Map of Georgia with stars showing all the over 40 towns and cities that have held anti government protests in the last 30 days.
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (2 Wochen her)
This astonishing graphic just shows the amount of protests that have happened in Tbilisi, the capital city of Georgia.

There have been 178 anti governent protests in the last couple of weeks or so.

178 protests. And that's just the capital.

#GeorgiaProtests
Calendar showing the daily numbers of protests in the capital city of Tbilisi, Georgia.
Happening across Georgia right now is a human chain forming in protest against the government and in solidarity with the only legitimate President of Georgia Salome Zourabchivili, whose official term ends today. She has stated she will be staying in office until new legitimate elections is held

This is the mountaineers section of the chain.

#GeorgiaProtests
Mountaineers in Georgia form a human chain on top of a mountain in Georgia with Georgia and EU flags.
President of Georgia Salome Zurabishvili has just joined the human chain of unity in Tbilisi, Georgia. Because of course she has.

#GeorgiaProtests
Salome Zurabishvili joins in a human chain in Tbilisi, Georgia
"A country that has been through war against Terrorist Russia does not apologize."

Huge banner unfurled across a bridge in Tbilisi, Georgia as part of a national chain of unity.

#GeorgiaProtests
Banner in Tbilisi Georgia as discussed in main post
“Fuck that man who first praised Russians.”

Akaki Tsereteli,
19th C Georgian poet.

Banner put up at Metekhi Church, Tbilisi, Georgia as part of human chain of unity, happening across Georgia, right now.

#GeorgiaProtests
Banner on a wall outside Metheki church, Tbilisi Georgia. The church is on a hill and the banner is on the fortresslike walls next to a statue of a famous Georgian on a horse overlooking the city. There are protestors flying Georgia and EU flags.
In Georgia today there is a human chain of unity in protest of the illegitimate government. There are hundreds of thousands of people joining hands across Georgia, but it's not just Georgia.
There are dozens of towns and cities across Europe and the world joining in. This is Trafalgar Square in London.

#GeorgiaProtests
Protestors with Georgia and EU flags join hands across Trafalgar Square in London.
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (2 Wochen her)
In Georgia, President Salome Zourabichvili has decided to leave her official residence before the contested inauguration of the new president.

“I will be with you. This building was a symbol only as long as a legitimate president was sitting here. I take legitimacy with me. I am taking the flag with me. I am taking the people’s trust with me.”

#GeorgiaProtests
Georgia President Salome Zourabichvili giving a speech outside the presidential palace in Tbilisi Georgia
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (2 Wochen her)
"Georgian President Zourabichvili made a wise and decisive choice not to remain at her presidential residence, as doing so would have marginalized the process and turned it into a circus. The Georgian people need a president who stands with them, serving as a true conveyor of their messages and pleas to the outside world.

Unlike Mikheil Kavelashvili and other leaders, the President has the privilege of walking among her people, and she is right to embrace that."

Anna Gvarishvili,

#Georgia
Georgian President Salome Zourabchivili walking away from a podium outside the presidential palace in Tbilisi, Georgia.
"In Georgia, there are two different images here.

There are those who are locked up in the Parliament, afraid, sold out, illegitimate, not recognized by anyone, sanctioned and angry.

We are open, free, joyful, very calm. The truth is with us because we have love for the country, and with us, perhaps more importantly, we have love for each other, and that is why we will win."

Salome Zourabchivili,
President of Georgia.

#GeorgiaProtests

https://civil.ge/archives/648760
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (2 Wochen her)
To understand why the president of Georgia just left the presidential palace of her own accord when she is still the legitimate president is not difficult.

If she had stayed, the illigitimate regime would have come to arrest her and the people would have defended the building and their president to the end.

She could have chosen to do that, but she didn't. Putting people in harms way is not a real presidents style.

Also, now she's President of Georgia, and she's at large.

#GeorgiaProtests
Photo of Georgian President Salome Zourabchivili in a crowd.
"Next week, I will introduce the Georgian Nightmare Non-Recognition Act, which will prohibit US recognition of the illegal dictatorial regime in Georgia and recognize Salome Zourabichvili as the only legitimate leader in Georgia until such a time as free and fair elections are held."

Rep. Joe Wilson,
Chair,
U.S. Helsinki Commission.

#SanctionGeorgia

https://newsukraine.rbc.ua/news/us-recognizes-zourabichvili-as-only-legitimate-1735427302.html
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (2 Wochen her)
Joint statement by the Nordic-Baltic Foreign Ministers on the situation in Georgia.

"We are seriously concerned about the situation in Georgia.

Georgia urgently needs a way out of the crisis, and to restore public trust in its democratic institutions. We urge the Georgian authorities to take immediate steps in this direction, including by implementing OSCE electoral recommendations and by considering the possibility of new elections based on these recommendations."

https://www.regjeringen.no/no/aktuelt/joint-statement-by-the-nordic-baltic-foreign-ministers-on-the-situation-in-georgia/id3081491/
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (2 Wochen her)
"In Georgia, as protests entered their 32nd day, the crisis deepened when President Salome Zourabichvili relocated from her residence, vowing to continue serving as president until new parliamentary elections are held.

The ruling Georgian Dream party installed their own president Mikheil Kavelashvili.

This move, rather than dampening protest momentum, has only highlighted the growing divide between a government clinging to power and a population demanding change."

https://euromaidanpress.com/2024/12/30/georgias-pro-western-president-leaves-palace-what-does-this-mean-for-the-protests/?swcfpc=1
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (2 Wochen her)
In Georgia, a whole series of repressive laws come into effect today, including the banning of the use of fireworks at protests.

Protestors in Zugdidi protested against them immediately.

#GeorgiaProtests
Red flare fireworks held up by protestors in Zugdidi, Georgia
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (2 Wochen her)
🔥"Fire To Oligarchy!"🔥

This massive protest banner was unveiled earlier this morning on Narikala Fortress Wall in Tbilisi, Georgia. It says 'Fire to Oligarchy' in Georgian. It's yet another example of how the protestors in Georgia are dominating the civic space.

The message is being interpreted as a powerful mix of threat, curse and prophecy.

#GeorgiaProtests
Huge  vertical protest banner on Narkala Fortress wall in Tbilisi, Georgia. It says Fire to Oligarchy in Georgian with flames at the bottom.
In Georgia, New Year's Eve will be marked with a magical mash up celebration/protest outside parliament in Tbilisi with guest of honour President Zurabishvili. It sounds like a lot of fun. They've been advertising it for weeks.

Meanwhile, the official city New Year celebration is going ahead. While it's past 5 p.m. in Tbilisi, the mayor has yet to disclose the start time, the venue or the line up as he's scared the protestors might turn up.

Who's really in charge of Georgia?

#GeorgiaProtests
Poster advertising Magical New Year's Eve Protest in Tbilisi Georgia.
This is New Year in Tbilisi. It's a protest outside parliament but it's also a celebration with a supra feast table being laid out. It's full of food now, and the supposedly banned fireworks are all going off.

What a way to see in the new year.

#GeorgiaProtests
Supra feast table outside parliament in Tbilisi Georgia.
New Year's Eve in Tbilisi, Georgia was also the 34th consecutive night of protests against the government outside parliament.

There were around 200,000 people and in the middle of all of them they had set up a 1 Kilometre long supra feast table where people brought food to share.

In Georgia, they are rebuilding civic society, in spite of and because of their Russia backed illegitimate government, from the bottom up.

#GeorgiaProtests
Protestors gather round a supra feast table set up outside parliament in Tbilisi, Georgia. 
Photo by Ezz Gaber.
This is a mesmerising traditional Georgian dance from the magical new year's eve celebration demonstration in Tbilisi last night, attended by the only legitimate president of Georgia Salome Zourabchivili. You can spot her watching in the crowd with the rest of the people.

It's beautiful, but is it art or is it protest, and why can't it be both?

This is Georgia, the 2025 version.

#GeorgiaProtests
"What is happening now in Georgia is not just a local dispute on the periphery of Europe.

It is one of the episodes in Russia’s centuries-long imperial actions and Putin’s hybrid war against democracies.

It is worth looking at the broader picture of recent decades to understand the essence of these events."

Rasa Juknevičienė,
Permanent Rapporteur on Georgian Affairs at the European Parliament.

#GeorgiaProtests.

https://elpnariai.lt/en/r-jukneviciene-about-georgia-and-beyond/
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (2 Wochen her)
In Georgia, January 2nd is the holiday of Bedoba. It's believed the way you spend the day on Bedoba will determine your whole year ahead.

So of course the Georgians are out protesting against their illegitimate Russia backed government today.

#GeorgiaProtests
Protestors outside parliament in Tbilisi Georgia.
"Republican and Democratic lawmakers are renewing efforts to pass legislation supporting Georgia.

Reps. Joe Wilson (R-S.C.) and Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.), the chairs of the Helsinki Commission, reintroduced on Friday the MEGOBARI Act, which codifies sanctions against Georgian government officials for human rights abuses and undermining democracy.

The legislation comes amid mass protests against a power grab by the Georgian Dream party and Russian interference."

https://thehill.com/homenews/house/5066323-georgia-bipartisan-legislation-helsinki-commission/
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (1 Woche her)
OSCE President Pia Kauma has postponed her visit to Georgia to discuss the recommendations in the OSCE report on the recent elections in Georgia.

This follows criticism from the opposition in Georgia who regarded the visit as legitimising the regime.

#GeorgiaProtests

https://www.interpressnews.ge/en/article/136663-pia-kauma-ive-decided-to-postpone-visiting-georgia/
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (7 Tage her)
In Georgia, tonight is Christmas Eve which this year coincides with the 40th consecutive night of protests against the illegitimate Russia backed government.

The streets of Tbilisi are every bit as crowded as they have been, but tonight there are beautiful carols. This one is called 'Alilo'.

#GeorgiaProtests
Dieser Beitrag wurde bearbeitet. (6 Tage her)
In Georgia, the government extended the Christmas holiday period in the hope people would go skiing instead of protesting.

So people have decided to go skiing as well as protesting.

#GeorgiaProtests
Skiers on a mountain in Georgia holding huge EU and Georgia flags
In Georgia, the illegitimate Russia backed government have banned all masks and face coverings at protests. But they didn't say anything about giant walking bubbles!

If you look at the space where protest, performance art and massive pisstake meet, you'll find a Georgian there, every time.

#GeorgiaProtests
Protestors in Tbilisi, Georgia, walking in a giant plastic bubble to conceal their identity.