Thousands of civilians descended upon Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital, last weekend. These demonstrations sparked violent clashes outside parliament in a dramatic escalation of tensions over the government’s decision to abandon talks to join the European Union. Protesters, who were angered by their government’s decision, built barricades, smashed windows, and launched fireworks in defiance. In response, the police responded with rubber bullets, tear gas, and water cannons. This scene marks a critical moment in Georgia’s struggle between pro-European aspirations and domestic political tensions, setting the stage for intense debates about the nation’s future.

The protests come as heightened accusations soar on both sides of the political divide. On the one hand, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze accused pro-European Union opposition groups of plotting to overthrow the government. This claim has also been echoed by the State Security Service, which alleged that certain political parties were attempting to “overthrow the government by force”.On the other, protestors claim their actions are a defence of Georgia’s constitutional commitment to EU integration.

Tina Kupreishvili, a demonstrator, emphasised the importance of the rule of law by stating that “the people of Georgia are trying to protect their constitution, trying to protect their country and the state”. In an interview with FRANCE 24, opposition figure Salome Zourabichvili denounced the current leadership, stating, “We are confronting today the stolen elections, the illegitimate parliament; and an illegitimate parliament cannot elect anything other than an illegitimate government and an illegitimate president.” These contrasting narratives illustrate the deep divisions driving the crisis. 

These events underscore a troubling conflict: a nation that is constitutionally committed to joining the EU and NATO also finds itself mired in violent confrontation and accusations of democratic backsliding. The Georgian people’s aspirations to align with European values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law are admirable. However, violence committed by both state forces and certain elements of the opposition is deeply concerning. The government’s heavy-handed response, including the use of rubber bullets and tear gas, reflects a failure to engage constructively with citizens’ legitimate grievances, while the opposition’s rhetoric risks inflaming tensions even further.

True progress towards integration requires dialogue, accountability, and rejection of authoritarian impulses. It’s important that from now onwards both sides prioritise nonviolence and meaningful engagement to bridge this growing divide. This to ensure that Georgia’s democratic and constitutional principles are upheld. 

The current crisis in Georgia is rooted in its complex post-Soviet history and its longstanding aspiration for Western integration. This is reflected in the country’s constitutional commitment to join the EU and NATO. Georgia most recently has seen its trajectory shift under the ruling of the Georgian Dream party, which has drawn the country closer to Moscow’s orbit. This has caused tensions to reach a breaking point this past week when the party announced a four-year halt to EU accession talks.

Allegedly, this decision was taken in response to the EU’s attempts to blackmail Georgia. This move followed controversial elections last month, which the opposition claims were rigged, deepening. Protests are further fuelled by frustration over Bidzina Ivanishvili, the founder of “Georgia Dream” and the country’s wealthiest man, who is seen by many as a symbol of the government’s authoritarian drift. The decision to delay EU integration marks a sharp divergence from the will of many Georgians, intensifying the ongoing struggle for the nation’s democratic future.

Georgia faces a critical moment as its government’s decision to pause EU talks has sparked unrest and deepened divisions. This move risks destabilising the country and severing ties with its Western allies. To ensure peace and stability, leaders must engage in dialogue, respect democratic values, and address the people’s demands for a pro-European future.