Georgia Protesters Rally for Europe on Independence Day Amid Political Crisis

Thousands marched through Tbilisi carrying Georgian and EU flags as opposition groups accused the government of democratic backsliding and drifting closer to Moscow.

Thousands of people gathered in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, on Tuesday to mark Independence Day with a pro-European demonstration against the government, amid deepening political tensions in the country.

Waving Georgian and European Union flags, protesters marched through central streets before assembling outside parliament under a heavy police presence. Many carried signs reading “We are Europe” and portraits of jailed former president Mikheil Saakashvili, who pursued closer ties with the West during his time in office.

Political turmoil deepens after disputed elections

Georgia has faced months of unrest since parliamentary elections in 2024, which opposition parties claim were rigged. Opposition lawmakers have refused to recognise the legitimacy of the new parliament and government.

The crisis intensified after the government announced it would suspend talks on joining the European Union until 2028. The decision sparked prolonged street protests and was followed by a crackdown on demonstrators, opposition figures, civil society organisations and independent media outlets.

Critics accuse the ruling Georgian Dream party of undermining democratic institutions and steering the country closer to Russia — accusations the government has repeatedly denied.

Demonstrators vow to continue protests

Speaking during the rally, 20-year-old student Maya Khidesheli said protesters would continue demonstrating to defend the country’s European future.

“We've been out in the streets for more than 500 days, and we'll keep coming out for as long as it takes,” she told AFP.

Another protester, 59-year-old chemist Irakli Nanadze, said public unity would ultimately prevail over authoritarianism.

The demonstration was organised by an alliance of opposition parties seeking to overcome divisions and form a united front against the government.