Thursday, May 28Thursday, May 28Thousands rally in Tbilisi on Georgia’s Independence Day to demand EU integration and condemn government policies
Thousands of Georgians took to the streets of Tbilisi on Monday to mark Independence Day with mass protests against the government’s perceived shift away from Western alignment, as opposition movements unite in a push for European Union membership. Demonstrators gathered in the capital to denounce policies they say undermine Georgia’s EU aspirations, with chants and banners demanding closer ties to Brussels.
Protesters accused the ruling Georgian Dream party of backsliding on democratic reforms and aligning with Moscow, a claim the government has repeatedly denied. The rallies, described by local media as among the largest in recent months, drew a diverse coalition of opposition groups, civil society organizations, and pro-EU activists. "The government is steering Georgia away from Europe," said one protester, echoing a sentiment widely reported by participants .
The demonstrations coincided with growing public support for EU accession, which has surged in recent polls. According to reports, the protests were peaceful, though tensions have risen in past weeks over controversial legislation critics say mirrors Russian-style restrictions on civil society . Opposition leaders framed the rallies as a turning point, with some calling for a unified front to challenge the government in upcoming elections.
Georgia, which obtained EU candidate status in 2023, has faced repeated warnings from Brussels over democratic backsliding, including concerns over judicial independence and media freedom. The European Commission is set to release a progress report on Georgia’s accession bid later this year, which could further escalate pressure on the government. While officials have reaffirmed their commitment to EU integration, critics argue recent policies—including a proposed "foreign agents" law—signal a retreat from Western values .
The protests come as Georgia navigates a delicate geopolitical balance, with Russia continuing to exert influence in the region. Analysts suggest the government’s stance may be driven by domestic political calculations ahead of parliamentary elections in 2027, though public sentiment increasingly favors deeper EU engagement. "This is not just about independence—it’s about our future," said a student protester in Tbilisi .
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