Georgians are risking serious injury and jail time as they take to the streets in fresh pro-EU protests, demanding their government resume its bid to join the European Union. The ongoing demonstrations for six nights sparked when the ruling party Georgian Dream announced it was halting the country’s EU membership talks. Police have arrested over 300 people. Moreover, many more have reported violent attacks by police. Furthermore, it included Avandtil Kuchava, who was repeatedly kicked in the head and left with several injuries.
Georgia’s human rights ombudsman condemned police responses and described it as torture and brutality. The US embassy in Tbilisi has also weighed in, warning the government not to blame others for the violence. The embassy reminded Georgians that it was the ruling party that had halted the EU process, leading to a loss of strategic partnership with the US.
The protests have been marked by scenes of defiance, with protestors facing off against riot police in body armor. Moreover, videos of protesters being beaten and arrested have gone viral. People are drawing comparisons with autocratic states like Russia and Belarus. Hence, the government’s critics say they are operating from a Russian playbook.
As the protests continue, Georgians are demanding their government listen to their demands and resume its bid to join the EU. The demonstrations are a testament to the country’s desire for a European future. Its determination to resist attempts to take it back into Russia’s sphere of influence. The future of Georgia’s pro-EU protests remains uncertain. But Georgians will continue to fight for their right to a European future and to join the EU membership talks.
The international community is closely watching the developments in Georgia, with many calling for calm and restraint.
