Thousands of Georgians took to the streets for the second consecutive day on Friday, protesting the government’s decision to delay European Union (EU) membership talks. The demonstrations, marked by clashes with police and widespread unrest, have heightened tensions in the Black Sea nation.
Protests erupted after Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced on Thursday that Georgia would not seek to open EU accession talks until 2028. Demonstrators, opposition figures, and civic groups accused the ruling Georgian Dream party of undermining the country’s aspirations to join the EU and steering closer to Russia.
“Georgian Dream’s self-proclaimed government is doing everything it can to destroy Georgia’s chances of joining the EU,” said Laura Kekelidze, a schoolteacher among the protesters. “But Georgians belong in Europe, and that’s why we are out here in the streets today.”
On Thursday night and into Friday morning, riot police dispersed crowds outside parliament in Tbilisi using rubber bullets, tear gas, and water cannons. Witnesses reported that journalists and peaceful protesters were beaten. The Interior Ministry confirmed the arrest of 43 people for “disobeying lawful orders and petty hooliganism” and reported injuries to 32 officers.
The protests have drawn criticism internationally. The Council of Europe condemned the “brutal repression” of demonstrators, urging Georgia to uphold European values. British Foreign Minister Stephen Doughty expressed concern over the “excessive use of force,” while Ukraine and Poland criticized Tbilisi’s decision to delay accession talks, accusing the government of placating Moscow.
The opposition has also accused Georgian Dream of democratic backsliding. Two opposition politicians, Elene Khoshtaria and Nana Malashkhia, were injured during Thursday’s clashes, with Khoshtaria sustaining a broken arm and Malashkhia a broken nose. Prominent poet Zviad Ratiani was reportedly arrested, with his lawyer alleging he was beaten in custody.
The government’s announcement came hours after the European Parliament adopted a resolution rejecting the results of Georgia’s October 2023 parliamentary elections, citing “significant irregularities.” The resolution called for new elections within a year and suggested sanctions on Georgian officials, including the prime minister.
Despite international and domestic criticism, Georgian Dream MPs unanimously backed Kobakhidze to continue as prime minister. Meanwhile, constitutional law experts have raised questions about the legitimacy of the new parliament, alleging procedural violations.
Georgia officially gained EU candidate status in December 2023, supported by 80% of its population. However, Brussels froze the accession process earlier this year, citing concerns over democratic governance.
With protests intensifying and the government facing mounting pressure, Georgia’s path toward EU integration appears increasingly fraught with challenges.
