Massive protests have erupted in Georgia, with citizens demanding new elections. Educational institutions have joined the movement, prioritizing activism over academics. Students and faculty march through Tbilisi, embodying the spirit of European aspirations. The government has responded with force, using tear gas and water cannons against demonstrators. Amid chaos and arrests, protesters remain committed to their cause, insisting on continuing until their demands for electoral reform are met, despite an uncertain future ahead.
For several days now, a massive wave of protests has swept through Georgia, with thousands of citizens calling for fresh elections. Educational institutions, including schools and universities, have joined this movement, prioritizing activism over academics.
“Join us!” resonate the voices of students as they march alongside their professors down the majestic boulevard of Tbilisi during the evening hours.
The vibrant golden stars set against a blue backdrop are prominently displayed throughout the crowd: they flutter as flags above the demonstrators, draped as capes over heavy winter coats, or glimmering on umbrellas. The spirit of Europe pervades the atmosphere.
The police have once again resorted to using water cannons and tear gas against the assembled demonstrators.
‘Our Resolve is Unyielding’
Yet, physics student Mariam argues that the current administration represents an entirely different direction:
Initially, businessman Ivanishvili was viewed as a beacon of hope for Georgia. However, he seems to have turned the populace against him.
For five consecutive days, Mariam and her fellow students have taken to the streets, prioritizing protests over lectures, with classes now deemed optional. Some universities have suspended all teaching activities indefinitely.
According to the University of Georgia’s declaration, their paramount mission is to guide the nation towards a European future.
Students and faculty members have been actively participating in the protests as well, reinforcing their commitment to steering Georgia toward this envisioned European trajectory.
‘Our Presence is Essential’
Physics lecturer Maya Todua considers it her responsibility to join the protests rather than remain in the classroom. “Naturally, I attend the demonstrations,” she states.
“It’s simply unacceptable to remain passive in light of the current situation in our country,” Todua explains. “We must stand in solidarity on the streets and express our views through this protest; it’s crucial.”
In the forefront, students proudly display a large banner that proclaims: ‘Civil disobedience is the bedrock of freedom.’
Prime Minister Kobakhidze has announced that Georgia will not engage in membership negotiations until at least the end of 2028.
Calls for Repercussions Against the Government
On the sidelines, onlookers cheer for the protesting students. One passerby, spotting the microphone of ARD, exclaims:
The Baltic nations—Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—have taken decisive action by imposing national sanctions on the Georgian leadership due to its suppression of legitimate protests.
Following the elections in Georgia, President Surabishvili urged the opposition to rally, and thousands responded.
Chaos and Arrests
Shortly after the students gathered outside the parliament, police forces advanced. Many officers were masked and donned helmets with visors, prompting the students to retreat.
Reports indicate that protesters at the parliament have launched fireworks at law enforcement. As fires blaze at makeshift barricades, the smoke and chaos also engulf the peaceful demonstrators: tear gas is deployed to disperse the crowd.
Both police and protesters have sustained injuries, with over 200 individuals arrested in recent days.
The police have utilized tear gas against those peacefully advocating for their rights, attempting to clear them from the streets.
Future in Jeopardy
Despite the turmoil, Todua insists that the demonstrations must persist until the government agrees to new elections:
However, the shape of this hopeful future and who will ultimately define it remains uncertain at this moment.