Protests erupted in Tbilisi following Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s announcement of a suspension of Georgia’s EU integration efforts until 2028. The demonstration, which began spontaneously, turned violent as Georgian police used force to disperse the crowd.
Police Tactics and Injuries
Georgian police used water cannons and pepper spray to disperse demonstrators, asserting that the protest had exceeded the boundaries of lawful assembly. By morning, special forces were conducting targeted arrests along Rustaveli Avenue, with reports indicating they entered nearby establishments, including pharmacies, to detain individuals.
Dozens of people were injured during the clashes, including at least 15 journalists who were on-site covering the event. Notably, David Tsagareli, a reporter for the Georgian service of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, was struck in the stomach by a special forces officer during a live broadcast. Guram Rogava, a journalist from the Formula TV channel, suffered a head injury after being attacked by police and was later hospitalised.
Footage published by Radio Free Europe showed instances of journalists being physically assaulted by security forces while performing their professional duties. The crackdown has drawn criticism for what has been described as a targeted campaign against the press.
The Protest’s Origins
The demonstrations were triggered by public frustration over the government’s announcement to delay EU integration, a move seen by many as a betrayal of Georgia’s long-standing aspiration for European membership. Protesters gathered in freezing temperatures, with Tbilisi’s wind chill making the night feel as cold as -1°C, to voice their discontent.
The protest rapidly intensified as demonstrators hurled objects, including eggs and various projectiles, at the police. According to the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs, three officers sustained injuries, with two requiring hospitalisation.
Government’s Justification
The Ministry claimed the protests violated legal norms and posed risks to public order. “Despite numerous calls from law enforcement and official statements issued by the Ministry, protesters continue to confront officers both verbally and physically. Additionally, they have thrown various objects, resulting in injuries to three officers,” read the Ministry’s statement.
