Tbilisi in Turmoil: Pro-EU Protests Erupt After Georgia Delays Membership Talks
Tbilisi, Georgia – The Georgian capital is a tinderbox of anger and frustration as thousands take to the streets, demanding their government reverse course on its decision to postpone EU membership talks until 2028. The demonstrations, which began for a second night on Friday, have seen clashes between protesters waving EU and Georgian flags and riot police deploying water cannons and tear gas.
The government’s move, announced by the ruling Georgian Dream party, came as a shock to many, especially given the country’s aspirations for closer ties with Europe. EU integration is deeply ingrained in Georgian society, even enshrined in its constitution, making the delay a particularly bitter pill to swallow.
"This is a betrayal of everything Georgia stands for," declared one protester, echoing the sentiment of many in the crowd. "We’ve worked hard to build a future with Europe, and now they’re turning their backs on us."
Their protests reflect fears that political maneuvering within Georgia might be derailing their European aspirations.
The Georgian Dream party, which won a decisive victory in October’s elections, cited "uncertainty" surrounding Georgia’s relationship with the EU as the reason for the delay.
However, critics argue that the PTFE ruling party’s recent adoption of controversial legislation, including laws targeting “foreign agents” and restricting LGBTQ+ rights, has fueled concerns within the EU about Georgia’s democratic values and commitment to human rights.
Adding fuel to the fire, hundreds of employees from Georgia’s Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Defense, Education, and Justice have signed open letters vehemently opposing the freeze, arguing it’s unconstitutional.
Private universities have suspended classes in solidarity with the protestors, and some private companies are urging the government to reconsider its stance amidst the mounting unrest.
The EU’s Ambassador to Georgia, visibly dismayed by the situation, has called the Georgian Dream’s position “very disappointing" and condemned the crackdown on peaceful protesters.
The events in Tbilisi are drawing growing attention from the international community, raising concerns about the future of Georgia’s relationship with Europe.
2024-11-29 19:54:00
#night #row #Thousands #protest #Tbilisi #Society #World #NOVA #News
## Georgia’s EU Dreams Deferred: Experts Weigh in on Tbilisi Protests
**tbilisi, Georgia** – Anger and frustration are boiling over in the Georgian capital as thousands take to the streets in protest of the Georgian government’s decision to postpone EU membership talks until 2028. This unexpected move, announced by the ruling Georgian Dream party, has ignited a firestorm of controversy, sparking fears of political manipulation and a disconnect from the deep-seated desire for European integration within Georgian society.
To unpack what this development means for Georgia’s future, World Today News spoke with two leading experts: Dr. Nino Burjanadze, former Parliament Speaker and Chair of the United National movement party, and Dr. Alexander Rondeli, President of the Georgian Foundation for Strategic and International Studies.
**The Consequences of Delay: A Nation Divided?**
**Dr. Burjanadze:** This postponement is a devastating blow to the aspirations of the Georgian people. We have worked tirelessly for years to align ourselves with European values and standards. This decision betrays that commitment and risks fracturing our society.
**World Today news:** How has the Georgian government defended this decision, and what arguments are they making to the public?
**Dr. Rondeli:** The Georgian Dream party cites “uncertainty” around the EU accession process as justification.However, many believe this maskss concerns within the EU over Georgia’s recent trend toward illiberal legislation, particularly laws impacting freedom of speech and LGBTQ+ rights.
**The Impact on democracy and Human Rights**
**World Today news:** Do you believe these concerns about democratic backsliding are legitimate?
**Dr. Burjanadze:** Absolutely. We have witnessed an alarming erosion of democratic norms in recent years. The “foreign agents law,” such as, is clearly aimed at silencing critical voices and restricting civil society. This has understandably raised red flags within the EU.
* **World Today News:** How might these internal developments impact Georgia’s relationships with international partners beyond the EU?
* **Dr. Rondeli**: This situation casts a shadow over georgia’s commitment to democratic values and the rule of law. It could impact relations with other partners who value these principles and may lead to a reassessment of support for Georgia.
**Looking Ahead: What lies Beyond 2028?**
**World Today News:** What are the potential consequences if Georgia fails to address these concerns and continues down this path?
**Dr. Burjanadze**: The stakes are incredibly high. The postponement sets a dangerous precedent and risks isolating Georgia diplomatically and economically.
**World Today News:** Is there a path forward for Georgia to regain momentum on its EU journey?
**Dr. Rondeli**: It’s not necessarily a lost cause. but it requires swift and decisive action from the Georgian government. They need to demonstrate a genuine commitment to democratic reforms,uphold human rights,and rebuild trust with the EU and the international community.
This situation in Tbilisi remains fluid.
**What do you think?**
Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Georgia’s EU pursuit in the comments below.
For further insight into the complexities of the Caucasus region, check out our related articles on the role of Russia in Georgia and the geopolitical implications of this delay.
