RE: LeoThread 2024-11-28 22:13

[elijahh]

Violent clashes after Georgia shelves EU bid

The decision prompted widespread demonstrations in Georgia, with thousands assembling outside the parliament building in Tbilisi.

Comments

[elijahh]

1/ Riot police clashed with protesters in Tbilisi after Georgia's government paused its EU membership bid until 2028. Tear gas, batons, and water cannons were used to disperse demonstrators.

[elijahh]

1. The protests erupted after PM Irakli Kobakhidze criticized the EU, accusing it of “blackmail” over calls to re-run Georgia’s disputed parliamentary elections. This U-turn upset citizens aiming for closer ties with Europe.

[elijahh]

1. Georgian Dream, the ruling party since 2012, has been accused of steering the country away from EU aspirations. Critics say they are aligning closer to Russia, creating a deep political divide.

[elijahh]

1. The European Parliament condemned Georgia's elections, citing voter intimidation and fraud. They also demanded sanctions against top Georgian officials, including billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili.

[elijahh]

1. Georgia has been working toward EU membership for years. For many, this sudden suspension feels like a betrayal of national aspirations enshrined in the constitution.

[elijahh]

1. The protests reflect a clash between public demand for European integration and Georgian Dream’s governance. Over 80% of Georgians reportedly support joining the EU.

[elijahh]

1. Protesters called the move unconstitutional, with activists accusing the government of suppressing dissent and silencing opposition voices, including journalists who were reportedly targeted.

[elijahh]

1. Former President Giorgi Margvelashvili called this a turning point, warning of efforts to push Georgia into Russia’s sphere of influence. He linked the shift to Kremlin-aligned strategies.

[elijahh]

1. Public frustration is palpable. Demonstrators say Georgian Dream's decisions risk undoing years of progress toward a Euro-Atlantic alliance, destabilizing the nation’s democratic future.

[elijahh]

1. A poignant statement from a protester: “Georgian people won’t let this happen. We refuse to be dragged back to the USSR.” It’s a powerful sentiment against perceived regression.

[elijahh]

1. Violence erupted when protests blocked streets in Tbilisi. The Interior Ministry claims protesters provoked police, injuring 32 officers. Opposition groups allege excessive police brutality.

[elijahh]

1. A journalist was beaten during the crackdown, sparking condemnation from media organizations. Press freedom concerns are growing amid rising state repression.

[elijahh]

1. The EU ambassador to Georgia described the suspension as “heartbreaking,” emphasizing its contradiction with Georgia’s longstanding pro-European stance.

[elijahh]

1. The broader context: Russia’s influence in Georgia has been a contentious issue since the 2008 war. Critics say Georgian Dream’s actions risk deeper reliance on Moscow.

[elijahh]

1. Public diplomacy is also shifting. A Georgian ambassador resigned, calling the suspension unconstitutional and showing solidarity with protesters.

[elijahh]

1. Georgian Dream’s argument? They claim the suspension allows reforms “on their terms.” But critics see it as a smokescreen for eroding democratic institutions.

[elijahh]

1. This isn’t just about policy. It’s about identity. For many Georgians, aligning with Europe represents freedom, modernization, and hope for a brighter future.

[elijahh]

1. Protesters are planning further demonstrations, highlighting the public’s determination. Will this pressure force the government to reconsider?

[elijahh]

1. The EU had paused Georgia’s accession talks earlier this year, citing a Russia-style “foreign agents” law. Tensions have been simmering for months.