Protesters met with force in Georgia following suspension of talks on European Union accession

Shortly after the European Parliament adopted a non-binding resolution rejecting the results of Georgia’s 26 October parliamentary elections, alleging “significant irregularities”, the Georgian government announced the suspension of talks on European Union accession and refused budgetary grants until 2028.

Following the statement, street protests erupted outside the parliament building and the ruling party Georgian Dream headquarters in Tbilisi, as well as in several major cities across Georgia.

Thousands of demonstrators stayed overnight, periodically clashing with the riot police who were using pepper spray, water cannons, tear gas, and physical violence against demonstrators, opposition figures, and journalists.

We urge the Georgian government to exercise restraint and ensure that the use of force remains proportional and in line with international human rights standards. Security forces must respect the right to peaceful assembly and refrain from using excessive force against demonstrators.

We call on the Georgian government to refrain from using force against journalists, who play a vital role in safeguarding freedom of information and upholding democratic values.