Georgia’s EU Bid Suspended Amidst Massive Protests and Brutal Crackdown
Executive Summary
Georgia is engulfed in political turmoil after the government announced the suspension of EU accession talks until 2028, igniting widespread protests in the capital Tbilisi and beyond. Demonstrators, fueled by anger over increasing authoritarianism and the government’s perceived alignment with Russia, have faced violent crackdowns, including beatings by masked special forces. The ruling Georgian Dream party is accused of democratic backsliding, manipulating elections, and curbing freedoms, while international actors such as the EU, U.S., and Ukraine have condemned the government’s actions. With opposition leaders detained and the country’s European aspirations at stake, the unrest marks a pivotal moment in Georgia's geopolitical trajectory.
Analysis
The decision to delay EU accession talks comes amid a backdrop of growing tensions in Georgia. The ruling Georgian Dream party, led by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, announced the suspension of negotiations following allegations of election irregularities by the European Parliament and accusations of “blackmail” by the EU. This decision, deeply unpopular with the Georgian public—79% of whom support EU membership—has fueled protests across the country, including in Tbilisi, Poti, and Khashuri.
The demonstrations have been met with a severe police response, involving tear gas, water cannons, and masked special forces lacking identification. Protesters and journalists report brutal beatings, with some suffering severe injuries such as broken bones and spinal fractures. Opposition leaders, including Nika Gvaramia of the Coalition for Change, have been detained, while police have raided activist offices and targeted social media organizers. The use of unmarked forces and widespread repression has drawn parallels to Russian-style tactics, a sentiment echoed by Georgia’s pro-Western President Salome Zourabichvili.
The protests highlight a broader struggle over Georgia's political direction. Georgian Dream, founded by billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili, has faced accusations of authoritarianism, manipulating elections, and aligning with Russia. The party’s controversial “foreign agent” and “anti-LGBTQ+ propaganda” laws have drawn criticism for curbing freedoms and undermining democratic norms. Meanwhile, the opposition accuses the government of steering Georgia back into Russia’s sphere of influence. Relations with Moscow, which occupies 20% of Georgian territory, have warmed in recent years, with trade increasing and the government refusing to join sanctions against Russia.
International condemnation has been swift. The U.S. has suspended its strategic partnership with Georgia, while Ukrainian President Zelenskyy imposed sanctions on Georgian officials for “surrendering” the country to Russian control. The EU has decried the government’s democratic backsliding and warned of consequences. Russian officials, meanwhile, have denied involvement but described the protests as attempts at a Western-backed revolution.
Despite the heavy-handed repression, protests continue nightly. Demonstrators view this as a defining moment for Georgia’s democratic aspirations and European integration. Opposition leaders are calling for a general strike, while injured protesters vow to return to the streets, highlighting the deep societal rift over the country's future.
