Georgia's Crackdown on Protests Draws International Scrutiny
Georgia's government is facing international criticism for its harsh response to protests. Since April 2024, over 400 people have been detained, with more than 60 imprisoned, and thousands fined for participating in demonstrations against the government's policies. The EU is ready to reconsider Georgia's EU accession path if the authorities take steps to reverse democratic backsliding.
The protests began after the government halted talks about joining the European Union following an election that the opposition alleged was rigged. Civics teacher Gota Chanturia has accumulated $102,000 in fines for his participation in the protests.
International rights groups have condemned the government's crackdown, which includes targeting opposition parties, rights activists, and independent media. Authorities have frozen the bank accounts of seven rights groups and targeted independent TV channels with lawsuits. Human Rights Watch and other organizations have urged the EU to pressure Georgian officials involved in human rights abuses.
The government's tactics have drawn comparisons to Russia's authoritarian playbook. Despite this, no verified information has been found about any organization prosecuting more than 76 people and incarcerating at least 60 of them between April 2024 and August 2025.
The EU has made it clear that it is ready to consider returning Georgia to its EU accession path if the authorities take credible steps to reverse democratic backsliding. However, the government's continued crackdown on protesters, activists, and media may jeopardize this opportunity. International pressure continues to mount on Georgian officials to respect human rights and democratic norms.
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