Indirect Pressure ("Chilling Effect")

Comedian Davit Rostomashvili Is Suing Activist Gota Chanturia in Court

Civic activist Gota Chanturia writes on social media that comedian Davit Rostomashvili is suing him for defamation in Zestaponi Court. The comedian is disputing the activist’s use of the word “loan shark” in reference to him.

Gota Chanturia learned about the lawsuit from a Rustavi 2 journalist, who contacted him for comment. This happened after his movement, the Social Democrats, applied for registration as a political party. The activist links the legal dispute to this fact.

According to Chanturia, the case concerns the construction of a petrol station by Davit Rostomashvili in Terjola, which local residents are protesting. The activist writes that after local residents contacted them, they visited the site and prepared video material. It is in this video that the activist uses the word “loan shark.”

“I asked around in many places and many people confirmed his links to loan-sharking. Some may be ready to speak publicly, others may not. You may also have this information and know about it, as it is so widely known. If nothing else, I think it can be easily checked in the registry. Of course, I link this to our political activity and the transformation of the movement into a party. Otherwise, why would Davit Rostomashvili want the whole country to talk about his activities again?” the activist writes.

GYLA Reports Interference with the Work of the Organization’s Lawyer in a Penitentiary Institution and Calls for an Investigation

The Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA) reports interference with the work of the organization’s lawyer in a penitentiary institution. According to GYLA, lawyer Jumber Katamadze was at Rustavi No. 6 Penitentiary Institution to meet with prisoner Giorgi Davitadze. After the meeting, he was not allowed to take out the notes he had made during the meeting, was held for several hours, and was able to leave the institution only after tearing up his own notes.

In the organization’s assessment, the incident constitutes interference with the lawyer’s professional activities and obstructs GYLA’s ability to provide legal protection to its beneficiary. GYLA calls for an investigation into the incident.

The Georgian Bar Association assessed the incident as interference with lawyers’ professional activities and called on the investigative authorities to investigate the matter. “Under the constitutional guarantee, the effective exercise of the right to defence entails ensuring free and confidential communication between a lawyer and a client, including guarantees for the protection of information and documentation obtained or created by the lawyer for the purpose of protecting the client’s interests,” the Association said in its statement.

Giorgi Davitadze is a convicted prisoner who accuses employees of Rustavi No. 6 Penitentiary Institution of sexual violence. The lawyer was at the institution specifically to visit him and provide legal assistance.

MMA Fighter Establishes Movement “to Protect Georgian Values, Principles, and Traditions”

MMA fighter Giorgi Kartvelishvili, together with like-minded individuals, has established a new movement “to protect sacred values.” According to him, the movement will have an “immediate response” to the “insult of sacred values, ancestors, religion, and history.”

“If necessary, we will even go to prison,” Kartvelishvili stated during the presentation of the movement.

According to Kartvelishvili, Georgian identity, traditions, values, religion, and culture have become the target of a “coordinated attack,” the authors of which he identified as “groups funded from outside the country,” politicians, activists, media representatives, and persons affiliated with them. He stated that the movement is beginning a fight against people and groups “submissive to externally funded foreign interests” and carrying a “perverted ideology.”

In recent days, Giorgi Kartvelishvili has appeared in pro-government media in a context supportive of the person accused of attacking Onise Okriashvili. Pro-government channels referred to him as a friend of the person accused of the attack, and his positions were used in defence of the accused. Activists also accuse Kartvelishvili of mobilizing so-called titushky. On social media, he frequently publishes photos taken with Georgian Dream leaders.

Georgian Dream member Archil Gorduladze welcomed the initiative and stated: “It is good when people have a desire to defend and raise their voices against targeted actions directed against the country’s culture, faith, people’s rights, and history.” According to him, “of course, all of this must happen in compliance with the law and within the full legal framework.”

Georgian Dream member Nino Tsilosani also commented on the establishment of the movement, describing it as a “natural reaction” by part of society. Tsilosani called on citizens to exercise restraint and avoid statements that infringe on human dignity, noting that the movement has announced an “immediate response.”

The establishment of the movement comes against the backdrop of a discrediting campaign carried out by pro-government media against Onise Okriashvili over several days, after which he was attacked near his home. Even after the attack, the same media outlets continued circulating Okriashvili’s videos out of context, while at the same time disseminating materials supportive of the person accused of the attack.

In this context, the movement established in the name of “protecting sacred values” and the messages surrounding it reinforce the impression that the political and media environment linked to the authorities facilitates the mobilization of public aggression against critical voices and the dissemination of narratives justifying violence.

Incidents Recorded Against Civil Activists – September 2025

Context

The incidents documented in September 2025 indicate a further intensification of repressive practices against civil activists and individuals associated with the protest movement. During the reporting period, the use of imprisonment and criminal prosecution against participants in pro-European protests was particularly notable, including the imposition of multi-year prison sentences on individuals accused of participating in group actions, drug-related offences, and other criminal offences. In numerous cases, the accused stated that the criminal proceedings were linked to their participation in the protests.

The documented cases also included administrative arrests, the imposition of financial sanctions, incidents of physical violence and intimidation, including group attacks against activists and threatening incidents. Certain episodes also revealed restrictions on the freedoms of assembly and expression, where law enforcement officers prevented demonstrators from exercising their right to protest or used force against them.

At the same time, investigative actions against non-governmental organisations and their representatives continued within the framework of the so-called “Masks Case”, targeting activities related to supporting civil society.

Incidents

On 2 September 2025, Judge Jvebe Nachkebia of the Tbilisi City Court sentenced Anton Chechin, who had been detained during the pro-European protests on drug-related charges, to 8 years and 6 months’ imprisonment. Chechin had been charged with the possession of a particularly large quantity of narcotic substances. He denies the charges and claims that the narcotics were planted on him because of his participation in the protests. He was arrested on 3 December. According to Chechin, his arrest had been preceded by an incident on 18 November, when he was taken from a protest to a police station and threatened with consequences if he continued participating in demonstrations.

On 2 September 2025, during a protest held on Rustaveli Avenue outside the Parliament building, where demonstrators were protesting statements made by Tea Tsulukiani within the framework of the Georgian Dream parliamentary investigative commission, the Ministry of Internal Affairs administratively detained 23 individuals. Protesters attempted to block the roadway, but law enforcement officers prevented them from doing so and forcibly detained several individuals on the pavement. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, those detained had failed to comply with lawful police orders.

On 3 September 2025, Judge Tamar Mchedlishvili of the Tbilisi City Court reclassified the charges against all eight defendants detained in connection with the pro-European protests and found them guilty under Article 226 of the Criminal Code, which concerns the organisation of or participation in group actions.

Three of them—Zviad Tsetskhladze, Vefkhia Kasradze, and Vasil Kadzelashvili—were sentenced to 2 years and 6 months’ imprisonment. The prosecution had originally charged all three under Article 225(1) of the Criminal Code with organising group violence.

The remaining five defendants—Irakli Miminoshvili, Giorgi Gorgadze, Tornike Goshadze, Insaf Aliyev, and Nikoloz Javakhishvili—were each sentenced to 2 years’ imprisonment. They had originally been charged under Article 225(2)of the Criminal Code with participation in organised group violence.

On 3 September 2025, Judge Nino Galustashvili of the Tbilisi City Court sentenced all eleven defendants detained in connection with the pro-European protests—Revaz Kiknadze, Valeri Tetriashvili, Giorgi Terishvili, Andro Chichinadze, Onise Tskhadadze, Ruslan Sivakov, Irakli Kerashvili, Luka Jabuia, Jano Archaia, Sergei Kukharchuk, and Guri Mirtskhulava—to 2 years’ imprisonment each.

The prosecution had charged all eleven under Article 225(2) of the Criminal Code with participation in organised group violence. As in the case of the previous eight defendants, Judge Galustashvili reclassified the charges and found them guilty under Article 226 of the Criminal Code, concerning the organisation of or participation in group actions.

On 3 September 2025, Judge Jvebe Nachkebia of the Tbilisi City Court sentenced Saba Skhvitaridze, who had been detained during the pro-European protests, to 2 years’ imprisonment. Initially, the prosecution accused him of assaulting police officer Mirian Kavtaradze. However, on 24 July, the Prosecutor’s Office reclassified the charge to intentional minor bodily injury under Article 120(1) of the Criminal Code.

On 3 September 2025, activist Mariam Meqantsishvili was assaulted by Beka Gotsiridze, a supporter of Georgian Dream. According to Meqantsishvili, while she was on Melikishvili Avenue, where a protest march coincided with the opening of Kakha Kaladze’s election headquarters, Gotsiridze threw a cigarette butt at her and struck her.

On 4 September 2025, the Tbilisi City Court sentenced activist Albi Kordzaia to 12 days of administrative detention. The case concerned his detention during the 2 September protest outside Parliament, where demonstrators protested statements made by Tea Tsulukiani before the Georgian Dream parliamentary commission.

On 4 September 2025, the Tbilisi City Court examined the administrative cases of individuals detained during the 2 September protest on Rustaveli Avenue. Activists Luka Devdariani, Nika Kordzadze, and Davit Gunashvili were each fined GEL 5,000. (The source text incorrectly states “2024”; this appears to be a typographical error, as the case concerns the events of 2 September 2025.)

On 8 September 2025, supporters of Georgian Dream physically attacked demonstrators gathered outside Kakha Kaladze’s election headquarters. Video footage published by media outlets shows activists being assaulted. The confrontations continued intermittently for several hours. According to participants, despite being present at the scene, the police failed to effectively prevent the attacks, even though, according to activists, some of the perpetrators could have been identified. The Ministry of Internal Affairs stated that an investigation had been launched into group violence.

On 10 September 2025, Megi Diasamidze was arrested on charges of damaging one of Kakha Kaladze’s election banners. The 23-year-old activist was detained under Article 187 of the Criminal Code, which criminalises the destruction or damage of another person’s property. The offence is punishable by a fine, community service, house arrest for a period of six months to two years, or imprisonment for one to five years. On 12 September, Judge Davit Kurtanidze imposed bail of GEL 2,000 as a preventive measure, and Diasamidze was released from the courtroom.

On 12 September 2025, Judge Nino Galustashvili of the Tbilisi City Court sentenced Anastasia Zinovkina and Artem Gribul, who had been detained during the pro-European protests on drug-related charges, to 8 years and 6 months’ imprisonment each. Zinovkina and Gribul were arrested on 17 December and charged with possession of a particularly large quantity of narcotic substances. Both deny the charges and state that the narcotics were planted on them during personal and residential searches because of their participation in the protests. Both had previously participated in demonstrations against Vladimir Putin in Russia.

On 12 September 2025, public servant Tako Kavkasidze stated that she had been dismissed on political grounds. According to Kavkasidze, she had publicly distanced herself from Georgian Dream’s decision to suspend the country’s European integration process by signing a public petition. She further stated that another signatory of the same pro-European petition had also been dismissed from public service.

On 15 September 2025, participants in a protest march travelling from the building of the Public Broadcaster to the intersection of Rustaveli Avenue and Besiki Street were verbally and physically confronted by several individuals. According to activists, one of the attackers was allegedly carrying a firearm and a knife. The Ministry of Internal Affairs stated that, following the incident, an individual born in 2009 was arrested on charges of the illegal acquisition, possession, and carrying of firearms and ammunition.

On 23 September 2025, according to Mariam Nikuradze, Director and photojournalist of OC MEDIA, demonstrators participating in the so-called “zebra crossing protests” near the Atoneli Residence in Tbilisi were deliberately struck by a vehicle.

Nikuradze stated that activist Mariam Meqantsishvili lost consciousness twice and was transported by ambulance. A second injured person, Lizi Ubilava, was also taken to hospital. According to the police, the incident had been referred to the competent authority, although it remained unclear whether a criminal investigation had been formally initiated.

On 29 September 2025, activist Gela Khasaia, a member of Girchi – More Freedom, was arrested. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, he was detained on charges of intentional minor bodily injury, and the investigation was being conducted under Article 120 of the Criminal Code. According to his lawyer, the case concerns a conflict that occurred on 1 September at Station Square involving individuals unknown to Khasaia. The lawyer further stated that while Khasaia was held at the police station, he was subjected to verbal abuse and psychological pressure. According to counsel, one police officer reminded him of an earlier incident in which the officer had threatened that Khasaia would eventually be arrested under criminal law.

The so-called “Masks Case”

Within the framework of the so-called “Masks Case”, the Prosecutor’s Office of Georgia summoned several representatives of civil society for questioning before a magistrate judge. On 4 September, Giorgi Mshvenieradze, Chair of the organisation Guardians of Democracy, was questioned before the Tbilisi City Court. According to him, the Prosecutor’s questions concerned his individual Facebook posts, the organisation’s financial documentation, and the organisation of the 2024 protest demonstrations.

On 8 September, Levan Natroshvili, Executive Director of the International Society for Fair Elections and Democracy (ISFED), was questioned in connection with the same case.

On 17 September, Eka Gigauri, Executive Director of Transparency International Georgia, and Lela Tsiskarishvili, Chair of the Tbilisi Human Rights House and Director of the Georgian Centre for Psychosocial and Medical Rehabilitation of Torture Victims (GCRT), were questioned before a magistrate judge. According to their statements, the questioning focused on activities related to the protest movement, including support provided to protesters, payment of administrative fines, legal assistance, and the procurement of various types of equipment and supplies.

The so-called “Masks Case” stems from a criminal investigation launched by the Prosecutor’s Office on 8 February 2025, conducted under Articles 318(1), 19 in conjunction with Article 318(2), Article 319, and Article 321¹(2)(a) of the Criminal Code of Georgia.

Within the framework of the investigation, on 7 August, the Prosecutor’s Office froze the bank accounts of seven non-governmental organisations: the Civil Society Foundation, ISFED, IDFI, GDI, Guardians of Democracy, Sapari, and the Social Justice Center. According to the Prosecutor’s Office, the organisations’ designated funds had been used to purchase equipment such as gas masks, protective goggles, face masks, face coverings, pepper spray, and other items allegedly used by protesters during violent confrontations with the police. The Prosecutor’s Office also treated the provision of legal assistance to detained and fined protesters as part of the alleged criminal conduct.

Documented Incidents Against Civil Activists – September 2024

Context

The incidents documented in September 2024 indicate the use of various forms of pressure against individuals engaged in civic activism and the expression of critical opinions. During the reporting period, incidents involving administrative detention, financial sanctions, and indirect pressure were documented, affecting activists, representatives of civil society, and individuals employed in the public sector.

September was particularly marked by the use of administrative and economic measures against activists. In addition, cases of alleged politically motivated dismissals from public employment were documented. According to human rights organisations, these dismissals may have been linked to the individuals’ publicly expressed criticism of the so-called “Russian Law.”

During the same period, legal and administrative measures directed against non-governmental organisations and their leadership raised concerns regarding potential restrictions on the activities of civil society. Overall, the incidents documented in September demonstrate that the practice of exerting pressure on critical and protest-related activities continued in various forms and targeted both individual activists and civil society organisations.

Incidents

On 4 September 2024, according to information reported by TV Pirveli, several public school principals were allegedly dismissed on political grounds. Those dismissed included Shorena Shamatava, principal of the public school in the village of Nokalakevi; Khatuna Bregvadze, principal of Public School No. 7 in Chiatura; and Mindia Gvelebiani, head of the public school in the village of Namashevi. The Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA) also issued a statement regarding these cases, highlighting possible discriminatory motives and noting that the dismissals may have been linked to the principals’ critical views expressed in relation to the so-called “Russian Law.”

On 9 September 2024, the Tbilisi City Court imposed a fine on activist Lekso Samkharadze, who had called Viktor Japaridze, a Member of Parliament supporting the so-called Russian Law, a “slave.”

On 14 September 2024, police detained businessman and civil activist Soso Babaev in Gori. He was accused of disobeying lawful police orders. Babaev owns a bar in Gori. For three days prior to the incident, preparations had been underway in the area surrounding his bar for the visit of Bidzina Ivanishvili, leader of the Georgian Dream party. Babaev openly protested the disruption caused by these preparations and also announced on social media that he intended to hold a protest. On the morning of 14 September, while on his way to work, he was detained by police. He spent 48 hours in a temporary detention facility.

On 24 September 2024, the bank accounts of Boris Chele Kurua were frozen. The member of the Coalition for Change announced this on social media. According to Kurua, he had previously been fined GEL 500 in connection with protest activities, although the court decision had never been formally served on him. As he did not pay the fine, enforcement measures resulted in the freezing of his bank accounts.

On 24 September 2024, one month before the parliamentary elections, the Head of the Anti-Corruption Bureau, Razhden Kuprashvili, designated the organisations Transparency International Georgia and Choose Europe as entities pursuing declared electoral objectives. The Bureau also required the organisations, as well as their leaders, Eka Gigauri and Khatuna Lagazidze, to submit financial declarations within five days, warning that legal measures would be applied in case of non-compliance.

The organisations challenged the decision before the courts, arguing that it was unlawful because the designation subjected them to the Law on Political Associations of Citizens and imposed restrictions on their activities. Amid the resulting controversy, on 2 October, following a public appeal by the Prime Minister, the Anti-Corruption Bureau reversed its decision and, citing the interests of the country, officially revoked the organisations’ status as entities pursuing electoral objectives.

Documented Incidents Against Civil Activists – March 2025

Context

The incidents documented in March 2025 demonstrate that the practice of exerting pressure on civil activists continues to maintain a systemic character and manifests itself in various forms. The incidents recorded during the reporting period reflect administrative detentions, incidents of physical violence, the active use of financial sanctions, as well as the use of criminal law mechanisms, including restrictions imposed on the financial activities of organisations associated with activists.

A significant portion of the documented cases is linked to citizens’ participation in protest demonstrations and the expression of public opinions. Particularly notable are the scale and intensity of financial sanctions. In many cases, fines were imposed on allegations of blocking roadways and, in a number of instances, were based on disputed or insufficient evidence. At the same time, cases were documented in which the actions of law enforcement authorities and judicial decisions failed to take into account the circumstances presented by the defence.

Particular attention should be paid to the freezing of the accounts of charitable foundations supporting activists and the protest movement during the reporting period. This indicates that the practice of pressure extends not only to individual activists but also to organisations providing support to individuals whose rights have allegedly been violated. Taken together, these trends significantly restrict civic space and seriously undermine the rights to freedom of expression and freedom of peaceful assembly.

Incidents

On 3 March 2025, musician and civil activist Davit (Tornado) Gabunia was physically assaulted and verbally abused in the street. According to information circulated on social media, Gabunia was attacked by Mikha Meskhi, the husband of singer Sopho Bedia. Mikha Meskhi subsequently confirmed this information in a comment posted under a Facebook post published by another user.

On 5 March 2025, Barbara Rokita and Kristine Pirveli, founders of “Crab Coffee” and civil activists, were verbally abused and then physically assaulted by a young man near their residence late at night. As a result of the attack, Barbara sustained a broken nose and required surgery. Since the protests of 28 November 2024, the founders of Crab Coffee had been providing coffee and tea free of charge to participants in pro-European demonstrations. The activists believe that the attack was motivated by their active involvement in the pro-European protest movement.

On 7 March 2025, the Patrol Police Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs detained members of “Strong Georgia” – Beka Beridzishvili, Juba Loladze and Oto Parulava. One of the party’s leaders, Irakli Kupradze, was also present with them. Video footage of the incident shows that members of Strong Georgia were returning home from a protest on Rustaveli Avenue when they were stopped by patrol police officers. Irakli Kupradze asked the officers to explain the reason for the stop, at which point he was forcibly placed into a police vehicle and detained.

On 11 March 2025, Judge Mariana Pomaeva of the Batumi City Court imposed fines of GEL 5,000 each on 18 participants in pro-European demonstrations. The Ministry of Internal Affairs accused the activists, under Article 174(4) of the Code of Administrative Offences, of “artificially creating a barrier through intensive movement” on a pedestrian crossing. Those fined included Diana Bolkvadze, Tamar Surmanidze, Badri Kochalidze, Archil Beridze, Natia Letodiani, Davit Robakidze, Manuchar Khozrevanidze, Keti Paksadze, Mariam Saginadze, Nugzar Tapladze, Tatia Abuladze, Linda Tsintsadze, Archil Shotadze, Giorgi Chkhaidze, Elizbar Chkhikvadze, Gocha Surguladze and Ana Vacheishvili.

On 12 March 2025, Judge Aleksandre Goguadze of the Batumi City Court fined participants in pro-European demonstrations – actor Malkhaz Iremadze, Mariam Gogolishvili, Mari Tsetskhladze and Niko Mirtskhulava – GEL 5,000 each for an act provided for under Article 174(4) of the Code of Administrative Offences. The activists were accused of “artificially creating a barrier through intensive movement” on a pedestrian crossing in Batumi during the night of 31 January.

On 12 March 2025, Judge Jumber Bejanidze of the Batumi City Court fined civil activist Gubaz Lamparadze GEL 5,000 in the so-called “zebra crossing movement case”. The Ministry of Internal Affairs accused the activist, under Article 174(4) of the Code of Administrative Offences, of “artificially creating a barrier through intensive movement” on a pedestrian crossing.

On 17 March 2025, at the request of the Prosecutor’s Office of Georgia, the Tbilisi City Court ordered the freezing of the bank accounts of charitable foundations that had assisted citizens who had been allegedly unlawfully fined for participating in pro-European demonstrations by helping them pay fines and by providing financial assistance to so-called “prisoners of conscience” and their families.

The following organisations were affected by the freezing order:

Charitable Foundation “Nanuka’s Fund”;
Charitable Foundation “Prosperity”;
Charitable Foundation “Fund for Each Other 24/7”;
Non-Governmental Organisation “Tbilisi Human Rights House”;
Non-Governmental Organisation “Shame”.

According to a statement issued by the Prosecutor’s Office, the foundations were frozen within the framework of an investigation initiated on the basis of an application submitted by “United Neutral Georgia”, a satellite organisation affiliated with Georgian Dream. The freezing order was authorised by Judge Mzia Garshaulishvili, who was appointed to the Criminal Chamber of the Tbilisi City Court in December 2024.

On 18 March 2025, the Tbilisi City Court rejected the request of Temur Katamadze, the flag-bearer of the Batumi protests, to be granted refugee status, as well as humanitarian or subsidiary protection status, during a hearing held on 18 March.

On 19 March 2025, the family of prisoner of conscience Zviad Tsetskhladze was fined for the ninth time. Tsetskhladze’s mother, Nargizi Davitadze, stated on TV Pirveli that the Ministry of Internal Affairs accused her of “artificially blocking the roadway” under Article 174¹ of the Code of Administrative Offences. According to Davitadze, there had been several occasions when they had not even been present on Rustaveli Avenue, yet financial sanctions had nevertheless been imposed on them by the Ministry.

On 19 March 2025, Marizi Kobakhidze, the mother of prisoner of conscience Tornike Goshadze, was fined GEL 5,000 by Judge Manuchar Tsatsua. The Ministry of Internal Affairs accused her of artificially blocking the roadway on Rustaveli Avenue on 23 January under Article 174¹ of the Code of Administrative Offences. It is noteworthy, however, that Rustaveli Avenue had become blocked naturally due to the large number of people present.

On 19 March 2025, Judge Koba Chagunava fined tour guide Aleksandre Giorgadze GEL 5,000. The Ministry of Internal Affairs accused the active protest participant of blocking a roadway on 3 January under Article 174¹ of the Code of Administrative Offences. However, during the hearing, the Ministry failed to present any evidence substantiating the allegation.

On 19 March 2025, Judge Koba Chagunava found actor Sandro Samkharadze liable for an administrative offence and issued him an oral warning. The Ministry of Internal Affairs accused him of carrying a prohibited item during a protest held on 25 November 2024.

On 21 March 2025, during a protest on Rustaveli Avenue, police detained three activists – Tako Gvilia, Tatia Apriamashvili and Luka Gogia. Police began detaining activists outside Parliament after citizens had brought plastic chairs for young demonstrators standing in heavy rain, but representatives of the Ministry of Internal Affairs confiscated the chairs. Tako Gvilia told TV Pirveli that she was initially discussing the issue of the chairs with police officers when she was suddenly seized and forcibly placed in a detention vehicle together with Tatia Apriamashvili. Notably, Luka Gogia, a student at Ilia State University, was detained after applauding the police following the detention of the two women. Tatia Apriamashvili and Tako Gvilia were later released on the basis of a written undertaking, while Luka Gogia was released from a temporary detention facility on 22 March.

On 21 March 2025, the court fined Tsotne Koberidze, a member of the Coalition for Change, GEL 2,000. According to the political party Girchi – More Freedom, Georgian Dream accused Tsotne Koberidze of obstructing the detention of another individual and insulting a police officer.

Documented Incidents Against Civil Activists – May 2024

Context

The monitoring conducted in May 2024 demonstrated a significant escalation in human rights violations committed against civil activists in Georgia. This period coincided with the reintroduction of the so-called “Russian Law,” which triggered large-scale, continuous, and intensive protest demonstrations across various cities of the country, particularly in Tbilisi.

During the reporting period, numerous incidents were documented, including administrative and criminal detentions, serious incidents of violence, restrictions on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, intimidation, and the imposition of financial sanctions. A significant number of these incidents occurred in connection with peaceful assemblies and protest demonstrations involving law enforcement authorities or persons associated with them, indicating a pattern of restricting civic space and suppressing critical civic activism by the State.

Incidents

On 1 May 2024, the Special Tasks Department dispersed a protest against the so-called “Russian Law” on Rustaveli Avenue. During the dispersal, special forces used pepper spray, tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons. Numerous individuals were injured. Among them was 25-year-old Nika Demurishvili, who was reportedly struck by a rubber bullet and sustained facial injuries. Konstantine Chakhunashvili was also reportedly hit by a rubber bullet, which struck him in the arm and thigh. By 01:30 a.m. on 2 May, eight citizens had been hospitalised.

The Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA) issued a public statement calling on the Ministry of Internal Affairs to cease unlawful, violent practices incompatible with the protection of human rights and respectful of human dignity.

On 1 May 2024, during a protest against the so-called “Russian Law” in Zugdidi, Maia Kalandia, Chair of the Akhalifaction in the Zugdidi Municipal Council, and Mariam Sichinava, Head of the Zugdidi branch of the political movement Droa, were detained.

On 3 May 2024, citizens held a protest at the Paragraph Hotel in Tbilisi, where a reception for the President of the Asian Development Bank was taking place. The situation escalated several times during the protest, and police detained one citizen.

On 3 May 2024, teacher and activist Lado Apkhazava was ambushed outside his home and physically assaulted with wooden batons while he was with his child.

On 3 May 2024, protesters gathered near the Tbilisi Circus were attacked, and several individuals were physically assaulted. Five citizens sustained injuries.

On 7 May 2024, unidentified individuals attacked and physically assaulted Giorgi Kldiashvili, Executive Director of the Institute for Development of Freedom of Information (IDFI), while he was giving an interview near the Embassy of Sweden.

On 8 May 2024, unidentified individuals ambushed Gia Japaridze, a researcher at the Chavchavadze Centre, outside his home and physically assaulted him. According to the available information, the attack was carried out by more than two individuals, who were reportedly armed with wooden baseball bats.

On 8 May 2024, Nestan Ananidze, a citizen opposing the so-called “Russian Law,” was instructed by police to leave Victory Park in Tbilisi while exercising. According to Ananidze, the reason was the T-shirt she was wearing bearing the inscription “No to the Russian Law.” Events dedicated to Victory Day over Fascism were taking place in the park, attended by senior officials of the ruling Georgian Dream party.

On 8 May 2024, Giorgi Shanidze, a volunteer fighter on the Ukrainian side, was arrested on suspicion of damaging a surveillance camera during a protest against the so-called “Russian Law.” Police detained him near his residence.

On 9 May 2024, police arrested civil activist and military blogger Ucha Abashidze at his home.

On 9 May 2024, during a protest against the so-called “Russian Law” on Chavchavadze Avenue, law enforcement officers began forcibly detaining peaceful demonstrators. According to TV Pirveli, at least five individuals were detained.

On 9 May 2024, police arrested Fridon Bubuteishvili on charges of damaging the Parliament gate (Article 187(1) of the Criminal Code) and throwing a stone at a firefighter-rescuer (Article 353¹ of the Criminal Code). On the same day, protest participant Irakli Meghvinetukhutsesi was also arrested on charges of assaulting a police officer under Article 353¹(1) of the Criminal Code.

On 9 May 2024, Giorgi Mumladze, a member of the United National Movement, was physically assaulted by four individuals. He was severely beaten and his mobile phone was taken. The attack occurred in Marneuli in the presence of his minor child.

On 9 May 2024, motorcyclists who had actively opposed the so-called “Russian Law” found their motorcycles damaged in the morning.

On 10 May 2024, police arrested Mariam Iashvili, civil activist and wife of Ucha Abashidze, under criminal procedure.

On 10 May 2024, police detained 11 individuals during a protest against the so-called “Russian Law” on Chavchavadze Avenue. Five of those detained were released shortly afterwards on the basis of a written undertaking. Protesters reported that police used force during the arrests.

On 10 May 2024, film director Levan Abdushelishvili was detained during a march on Chavchavadze Avenueprotesting the so-called “Russian Law.” According to Abdushelishvili, police subjected him to physical violence during the arrest, after which he had to be transferred to Ingorokva Clinic for medical treatment.

On 10 May 2024, unidentified individuals damaged the vehicle of videographer Giorgi Jobava, which he intended to use to provide coffee and tea to participants of the protest.

On 10 May 2024, Beka Beridze, a member of the youth organisation of Lelo, was ambushed. According to Beridze, members of his family noticed a suspicious vehicle parked near their home and warned him not to return.

On 10 May 2024, Sandro Kinkladze, a participant in the protests against the so-called “Russian Law,” reported that unknown individuals were lying in wait outside his home. He also published on social media a photograph of the vehicle that he claimed had been waiting for him.

On 10 May 2024, Giorgi Mosiashvili, an employee of Girchi TV, was taken in for questioning. According to Zurab (Girchi) Japaridze, the questioning was likely connected to the publication by Imedi TV and POSTV of a manipulated recording of a years-old conversation the previous day.

On 11 May 2024, police approached Nodar Turashvili, a chef who had participated in protests against the so-called “Russian Law,” at approximately 6:00 p.m. and took him to an undisclosed location. Turashvili later stated on Facebook that he had been taken to the Ortachala temporary detention facility for questioning in relation to an alleged theft. He linked the incident to his civic activism.

On 11 May 2024, activists opposing the so-called “Russian Law” were subjected to overnight surveillance and intimidation. Members of the civic movement Dapioni—Zviad Tsetskhladze, Luka Natsvlishvili, and poet Rati Amaghlobeli—became targets of so-called “titushky.” Masked men appeared outside the activists’ homes, verbally abused them, and threatened them with physical violence. Individuals believed to be the perpetrators also waited outside the home of Rati Amaghlobeli.

On 12 May 2024, the court ordered pre-trial detention as a preventive measure for Fridon Bubuteishvili, Irakli Meghvinetukhutsesi, and Giorgi Shanidze.

On 12 May 2024, police arrested Giorgi Kuchuashvili and Davit Koldari. On the same day, the court imposed pre-trial detention on both individuals as a preventive measure.

On 12 May 2024, the court also imposed pre-trial detention on blogger Ucha Abashidze and his wife Mariam Iashvilias a preventive measure.

On 13 May 2024, the Special Tasks Department dispersed the protest against the so-called “Russian Law.” At the same time, numerous media outlets circulated footage showing members of the special forces using violence against protesters.

During the protest outside Parliament against the so-called “Russian Law,” 23 individuals were detained. According to the Public Defender (Ombudsman), 22 of the 23 detainees reported having been subjected to physical violence by police officers. Those detained included civil activists Guram Adamia, Malkhaz Gorgidze, Irakli Zarkua, Patrick Hernandez, Brian Jay Bingham, Guka Rcheulishvili, Giorgi Kemularia, Lasha Kemularia, Revi Qurashvili, Zura Khomeriki, and Kakha Kvekveskiri.

Police officers also physically assaulted Nadim Khmaladze, a veteran of the war in Ukraine, during the protest. He was detained, beaten, and subsequently released.

On 14 May 2024, the Parliament of Georgia adopted the Law on Transparency of Foreign Influence, commonly referred to by the public as the “Russian Law,” at its third reading. Of the 116 Members of Parliament who participated in the vote, 84 voted in favour of the bill.

The law requires non-governmental organisations and media outlets receiving foreign funding to register in a special registry as organisations “pursuing the interests of a foreign power.” According to critics, this terminology creates a risk of stigmatisation and restricts the activities of civil society.

The adoption of the law was preceded by several weeks of large-scale demonstrations in Tbilisi and other cities. Demonstrators argued that the initiative posed a threat to the country’s democratic development and European integration. Georgia’s international partners, including representatives of the European Union and the United States, likewise stated that legislation of this nature is incompatible with European democratic standards and could negatively affect Georgia’s European integration process.

Civil society organisations and human rights defenders frequently drew parallels with similar legislation in Russia, where, following its adoption, the activities of independent media and civil society organisations were significantly restricted. According to their assessment, the Russian legislation had been progressively tightened over the years and eventually expanded to apply not only to organisations but also to individual persons.

On 14 May 2024, civil activist Lazare Grigoriadis was detained during a protest against the so-called “Russian Law.”

On 14 May 2024, during a protest against the so-called “Russian Law” at Heroes’ Square, at least three individualswere detained, according to TV Pirveli. One of those detained, Konstantine Tokhadze, was later released.

On 14 May 2024, Giorgi Okmelashvili, founder of the company Limoni and a participant in the protests, was arrested on charges of assaulting a police officer under Article 353¹(1) of the Criminal Code.

On 14 May 2024, during a protest against the so-called “Russian Law,” dozens of members of the Special Tasks Department forcibly dragged activist Davit Katsarava into a police cordon and repeatedly kicked and beat him. Katsarava was detained; however, due to the severity of his injuries, he was transferred to hospital, where he underwent surgery.

On 15 May 2024, late at night during a protest on Rustaveli Avenue, participants noticed a vehicle from which individuals armed with wooden batons emerged. The unidentified individuals fled the scene after young protesters gathered and began recording them.

On 15 May 2024, Irakli Miladze, a university student who had organised a meeting at the Caucasus International University against the so-called “Russian Law,” was attacked. According to Miladze, members of an aggressive group, who were also members of the university’s student self-government, ambushed him after the meeting, physically assaulted him, and verbally abused him.

On 16 May 2024, 19-year-old Omar Okribelashvili and 23-year-old Saba Meparishvili were arrested in connection with alleged damage to a temporary barrier valued at GEL 400 during a protest outside Parliament against the so-called “Russian Law.” They were charged under Article 187(2)(g) of the Criminal Code.

On 16 May 2024, Zuka Chakvetadze, who had been detained during the protest against the so-called “Russian Law,”stated that law enforcement officers physically assaulted him not only outside Parliament during his arrest but also afterwards inside the police vehicle. According to Chakvetadze, he was beaten by at least ten law enforcement officers.

On 20 May 2024, the Tbilisi City Court heard the cases of 54 activists, whom the Ministry of Internal Affairs accused of blocking the roadway during protests against the so-called “Russian Law.”

On 21 May 2024, the Tbilisi City Court fined Zviad Dalakishvili, an activist opposing the so-called “Russian Law,”GEL 2,300. Dalakishvili had previously been abducted by special forces officers and severely beaten. The court also fined activist Tornike Ketelauri GEL 2,200.

On 24 May 2024, Judge Nino Enukidze fined six activists GEL 500 each. The Ministry of Internal Affairs accused them of blocking the roadway during a protest against the so-called “Russian Law.”

On 30 May 2024, the court fined university applicant Saba Papashvili GEL 500 for participating in a protest against the so-called “Russian Law.” The investigation accused him of blocking the roadway.

Also on 30 May 2024, the Ministry of Internal Affairs brought administrative offence proceedings before the Tbilisi City Court against actress Anano Makharadze, accusing her of blocking the roadway during a protest against the so-called “Russian Law.”

On 31 May 2024, civil activist Vitali Guguchia and members of his family were physically assaulted by employees of POSTV, a television channel controlled by Georgian Dream. The confrontation began after civil activists had travelled to a village in the Samegrelo region, where a POSTV crew also arrived. Guguchia was physically assaulted by a POSTV camera operator, who also attacked members of his family. Following the incident, the Special Investigation Serviceinitiated an investigation into the actions of the POSTV crew for interfering with journalistic activities.

Documented Incidents Against Civil Activists – June 2024

Context

The monitoring conducted in June 2024 demonstrated that human rights violations targeting civil activists continued and retained a systemic character. Although the intensity of protest demonstrations decreased compared to May, the practices of violence, intimidation, and legal pressure against activists remained evident. In addition, the reporting period saw an incident involving damage to the office of a political party, reflecting a tense and polarized environment and increasing the risk of politically motivated acts of violence.

The documented cases include both administrative and criminal detention, as well as incidents of physical violence, property damage, and indirect pressure. A number of these incidents were linked to activists’ civic engagement and participation in protest activities, indicating a hostile environment toward critical expression and creating a risk of a chilling effect.

Incidents

On 3 June 2024, activist Davit Kuprava was summoned for questioning by the Criminal Police after Nino Tsilosani, a Member of Parliament from the ruling Georgian Dream party, accused him of “harassment.” Tsilosani filed a complaint with the Ministry of Internal Affairs after, during a conversation with journalists, a citizen shouted “traitor” at her from a passing vehicle. Tsilosani claimed that she had been subjected to “harassment.”

On 5 June 2024, businessman and activist opposing the so-called “Russian Law,” Ioseb Babaev, was detained by the State Security Service of Georgia (SSG) on charges of illegal possession of a firearm and was physically assaulted. Judge Levan Darbaidze found the investigative actions conducted in the case to be unlawful and ordered Babaev’s release from the courtroom. Recalling the day of his detention, Babaev stated that law enforcement officers beat him for approximately five hours. According to Babaev, his detention was personally supervised by the head of the Central Criminal Police Department.

On 7 June 2024, student and activist Niko Managadze was physically assaulted by up to four individuals near the First Building of Tbilisi State University (TSU). The assault was preceded by Managadze’s announcement of a protest gathering outside TSU, where demonstrators planned to meet Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze. The protest was directed against what participants described as the undemocratic policies of the ruling Georgian Dream party, including the adoption of the so-called “Russian Law.”

On 8 June 2024, students opposing the so-called “Russian Law” held a protest outside Tbilisi State University, where Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze was scheduled to deliver a lecture. At the same time, individuals associated with the ruling Georgian Dream party, commonly referred to as “titushky,” were mobilized both inside the university corridors and around the perimeter of the campus. Tensions escalated repeatedly throughout the event.

On 9 June 2024, Mariam Tsitsikashvili, an employee of the non-governmental organization GRASS, was stopped by police after an altercation with People’s Power MP Viktor Japaridze at the airport. Police confiscated her passport and administratively detained her under the petty hooliganism provision of the Code of Administrative Offences.

On 11 June 2024, within one hour of the publication of a Facebook post by Shalva Papuashvili, Speaker of the Parliament from the ruling Georgian Dream party, activist Zuka Berdzenishvili was physically assaulted by a violent group. In his post, Papuashvili claimed that Berdzenishvili had been calling Members of Parliament and threatening and insulting them. Shortly afterwards, Berdzenishvili was ambushed outside his home, attacked from behind, beaten, and threatened with death. Due to the severity of his injuries, he required surgical treatment.

Also on 11 June 2024, students who were due to meet President Salome Zourabichvili at Orbeliani Square were confronted by so-called “vigilante groups.” As information about the planned meeting had been publicly available in advance, aggressive groups affiliated with Georgian Dream gathered at the venue. They verbally abused the President, calling her a “resident” and a “traitor,” and attempted to disrupt the meeting. Their verbal aggression targeted both President Zourabichvili and other participants and activists attending the event. According to the organizers, the primary objective of these groups was to provoke young participants into a physical confrontation. However, this attempt failed, and the groups left the area shortly afterwards.

On 13 June 2024, activist Beka Papashvili was physically assaulted at the Fresco supermarket on Gorgasali Avenue by the personal bodyguard of Georgian Dream MP Beka Odisharia. Papashvili stated that he was attacked by a group of so-called “thugs” as he exited the supermarket and that one of the attackers was allegedly the MP’s son. The assault followed Papashvili calling Odisharia a “slave” and a “Russian.”

On 17 June 2024, activist Leri Dardzania, an opponent of the so-called “Russian Law,” was ambushed in the morning. As he left his home, he was physically assaulted by approximately ten unidentified individuals. He sustained injuries to his face and required hospitalization.

Documented Incidents Against Civil Activists – July 2024

Context

In July, a pattern was documented of the use of legal mechanisms, the imposition of judicial sanctions, and summonses to investigative authorities against activists and critically minded citizens. The documented cases indicate that administrative and investigative mechanisms were used against persons who publicly expressed protest or were actively involved in public processes, serving the purpose of suppressing protest in society.

Incidents:

On 1 July 2024, the court fined citizen Mariam Tsitsikashvili GEL 700 after she expressed protest against Viktor Japaridze. Tsitsikashvili had been administratively detained on 9 June under Article 166 of the Code of Administrative Offences — petty hooliganism.

On 23 July 2024, the court fined Davit Katsarava GEL 2,000. Katsarava had been abducted from an anti-Russian protest by special forces officers on 14 May and severely beaten. The judge terminated the proceedings in relation to Article 166, while finding Katsarava administratively liable under Article 173 — failure to comply with a lawful order of a police officer. Katsarava was also prohibited from carrying a firearm for a period of two years.

On 23 July 2024, a dismissed employee of Tbilisi Public School No. 51 linked her dismissal to her participation in protests against the so-called “Russian Law.” Manana Ghvinjilia said that after the protests ended, the school administration asked her to write a resignation letter and leave her position. The teacher assessed the incident as political pressure.

On 20–25 July 2024, the State Security Service of Georgia summoned and questioned Georgian veterans fighting in Ukraine and activists as witnesses in court in connection with a confidential investigation under the articles of overthrow of the state and terrorism. According to Georgian Dream leaders and lawyers, the investigation concerns an alleged version of “preparation of an attack” against Georgian Dream honorary chairperson Bidzina Ivanishvili and other high-ranking officials.

In the so-called “coup case,” the SSG summoned Nadim Khmaladze, a fighter in Ukraine and opponent of the “Russian Law,” while on 23 July it summoned Ukraine war veteran Gela Kakhabrishvili. Within the framework of the investigation, Ukraine war veterans Vazha Tsatsadze, Lasha Chighladze, Beso Bendeliani, Konstantine Jghamaia, and Lasha Rukhaia were also among the persons to be questioned by the SSG

Documented Incidents Against Civil Activists – January 2025

The incidents documented in January 2025 indicate the use of diverse and intensive forms of pressure against civil activists. These incidents include administrative and criminal prosecution, physical violence, restrictions on freedom of expression, financial sanctions, and alleged politically motivated discrimination in professional activities.

During the reporting period, particularly notable were the mass detentions related to protest demonstrations in Tbilisi and Batumi, as well as judicial decisions concerning activists and the so-called “prisoners of conscience.” At the same time, multiple cases were documented in which individuals linked their dismissal from public employment to their civic position and participation in protests, creating a chilling effect on the exercise of freedom of expression. Cases of physical violence and ill-treatment against activists were also documented, both within Georgia and abroad. Overall, the events of January reflect an environment in which legal, administrative and coercive mechanisms are employed in parallel against civil society.

Incidents

5 January 2025

Several public employees were dismissed from their positions. The Chairperson of the Central Election Commission (CEC), Giorgi Kalandarishvili, dismissed CEC employee Vako Maisuradze on the grounds of institutional reorganization. Maisuradze links his dismissal to his public condemnation of violence committed by the ruling Georgian Dream party.

Pavle Gakharia, an employee of the Ministry of Internal Affairs’ Public Safety Management Centre 112, also stated that he was dismissed because of his participation in protest demonstrations. According to Gakharia, his employment contract was terminated without any justification.

8 January 2025

Gela Megrelidze, a German citizen who participated in protests against the so-called “Russian Law”, was denied the right of residence in Georgia and was found administratively liable for an offence committed during a protest.

Megrelidze, who returned to Georgia after 20 years abroad, applied for a residence permit. His application was rejected on the grounds that he allegedly posed a threat to the country. An official document issued to photographer Gela Megrelidze stated that his presence in Georgia was “incompatible with the interests of the State.”

10 January 2025

Judge Ketevan Jachvadze examined the cases of 11 prisoners of conscience—Andro Chichinadze, Jano Archaia, Guram Mirtskhulava, Onise Tskhadadze, Ruslan Sivakov, Luka Jabuia, Sergei Kukharchuk, Giorgi Terishvili, Irakli Kherashvili, Revaz Kiknadze and Valeri Tetriashvili—and ordered that they remain in pre-trial detention. The Prosecutor’s Office charged the eleven participants in the pro-European protest demonstrations with participation in group violence.

11 January 2025

Judge Irakli Khuskivadze examined the cases of eight prisoners of conscience—Vephkhia Kasradze, Zviad Tsetskhladze, Vasil Kadelashvili, Giorgi Giorgadze, Irakli Miminoshvili, Insaf Aliyev, Tornike Goshadze and Nikoloz Javakhishvili—and ordered that they remain in pre-trial detention.

The Prosecutor’s Office charged three defendants—Zviad Tsetskhladze, Vephkhia Kasradze and Vasil Kadelashvili—with organising and leading group violence, an offence punishable by six to nine years’ imprisonment. The remaining five defendants—Irakli Miminoshvili, Insaf Aliyev, Tornike Goshadze, Nikoloz Javakhishvili and Giorgi Giorgadze—were charged with participation in group violence, which carries a sentence of four to six years’ imprisonment.

11 January 2025

During a pro-European protest near Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi, protest participant and disability rights advocate Gia Jvarsheishvili was detained.

According to a briefing by Eka Gigauri, Executive Director of Transparency International Georgia, and Nino Lomjaria, head of the organisation Georgia’s European Orbit, multiple rights were allegedly violated during Jvarsheishvili’s detention. He was reportedly subjected to both verbal and physical abuse.

12 January 2025

A large-scale protest entitled “Unfair Court” was held outside the Babilo restaurant on Beliashvili Street in Tbilisi. The demonstration was prompted by information circulated on social media and protest groups indicating that representatives of the judiciary, including leading judges associated with the so-called “judicial clan”, were holding a New Year’s corporate gathering at the restaurant.

The protest was fuelled by public outrage over the fact that, amid the country’s ongoing political crisis, mass demonstrations and the detention of protesters, judges were attending a festive dinner. The demonstration began in the afternoon, after which a large number of police officers and special forces units, including water cannon vehicles, were deployed to the scene. Law enforcement officers completely cordoned off the perimeter of the restaurant to prevent protesters from approaching those inside.

Police officers on the scene prevented members of the media from filming individuals leaving the restaurant. While the judges’ gathering was taking place, the protest continued throughout the day.

Police administratively detained nine individuals. They were charged under Articles 166 and 173 of the Code of Administrative Offences, namely petty hooliganism and failure to comply with a lawful order of a police officer. Notably, all detainees alleged that disproportionate force had been used against them during their detention.

The hearings concerning the detainees took place at Tbilisi City Court on 14 January. Eight activists were sentenced to terms of administrative detention by different judges.

Specifically:

Judge Lela Mildenberger sentenced Tite Gedenidze and Zviad Robakidze to 10 days of administrative detention, while Shako Maghradze was sentenced to 12 days of administrative detention.
Judge Zviad Tsekvava sentenced Daniel Bulkashvili to 14 days of administrative detention.
Judge Manuchar Tsatsua sentenced Zurab Manchkhashvili to 13 days of administrative detention, while Giorgi Chachanidze received 10 days of administrative detention.
Judge Koba Chagunava sentenced Beka Papashvili to 15 days of administrative detention.
Judge Nino Enukidze sentenced Kakha Japaridze to 10 days of administrative detention.

11–12 January 2025

During protest demonstrations held outside the Constitutional Court of Georgia and the Adjara Police Department in Batumi, police detained 13 activists.

On 11 January, detentions began outside Batumi City Court, where activist Tatia Abuladze was detained after attaching a protest poster. Later the same day, activist Tsiala Katamidze was detained outside the Adjara Police Department after displaying a poster of similar content.

Police subsequently detained Mate Tsenteradze, Goderdzi Prangishvili, Temur Katamadze, Lali Dgebuadze, Teo Beridze, Malkhaz Iremadze, and Nini Shavadze, who is a minor.

According to the Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA), some of the detainees were charged with failure to comply with a lawful order of a police officer.

On 12 January, police detained several additional activists during the protest outside the Constitutional Court in Batumi, including Elizbar Chkhikvadze, Luka Natsvlishvili, Shushana Matsaberidze, and Levan Khorava.

According to GYLA, the detainees were transferred to Poti following their detention.

13 January 2025

Members of the ruling Georgian Dream party, Viktor Sanikidze and Irakli Zarkua, physically assaulted civil activist Lasha Gabitashvili in Dubai.

The incident followed Gabitashvili shouting “slave” and “traitor” at Georgian Dream Members of Parliament the previous day.

13 January 2025

Tbilisi City Hall employee Kristina Chubinidze was dismissed from her position.

The former public employee stated that she was dismissed because of her commitment to the Constitution and Georgia’s European values. According to her, although her employment relationship had been terminated on 31 December, she was informed of the dismissal only on 13 January.

Chubinidze was among the signatories of a public statement expressing support for Georgia’s European course

18 January 2025

During a protest held outside the Gldani-Nadzaladevi Police Department No. VII in Tbilisi, law enforcement officers detained several activists by use of force. Those detained included film director Guram Matskhonashvili, Sona Kalandadze, Mariam Paichadze, manager of the Haraki movement, Tamar Chumashvili, Roman Akopov, and Mariam Gilashvili. They were charged with wearing face coverings during a protest and with failure to comply with a lawful order of a police officer.

Several of the activists administratively detained outside the Temka police station alleged that they had been subjected to physical and verbal abuse by police officers. According to their lawyer, police officers pulled Sona Kalandadze’s hair and verbally abused her while taking her into the police station. The lawyer further stated that Mariam Paichadze was also dragged by her hair during her detention. According to the same source, one alleged law enforcement officer dressed in civilian clothing mocked the detainees and humiliated them because of their participation in the protest.

According to Tamta Mikeladze, Executive Director of the Social Justice Center, Guram Matskhonashvili was struck on the back of the head while at the police station.

20 January 2025

Judge Nino Gudadze delivered the judgment in the case of prisoners of conscience Omar Okribelashvili and Saba Meparishvili.

The court sentenced both defendants to three years’ imprisonment, which was reduced to two and a half years under the amnesty law. Of this sentence, one year was suspended, while the remaining one year and six months is to be served in a penitentiary institution.

As Okribelashvili and Meparishvili have already spent eight months in detention, they are expected to remain in prison for approximately another ten months.

During the hearing held on 20 January, both defendants pleaded guilty to the charges against them. The Prosecutor’s Office accused them of acting jointly to damage a police barricade, causing damage assessed at GEL 400. According to prosecutor Nugzar Chitadze, the defendants had also compensated for the damage.

Omar Okribelashvili and Saba Meparishvili were originally detained by police during protests against the so-called “Foreign Agents Law.”

20 January 2025

Fridon Bubuteishvili, aged 20, who had been detained during protests against the so-called “Russian Law,” was sentenced to five years’ imprisonment. The judgment was delivered by Judge Zviad Sharadze. The Prosecutor’s Office accused Bubuteishvili of damaging the gate of the Parliament building, causing damage estimated at GEL 500. He was also charged with throwing stones at a firefighter-rescuer.

26 January 2025

Civil activist Vakho Pitskhelauri was abducted and physically assaulted in the Tsmindatskali settlement of Gori. According to the activist, he was attacked by at least three masked individuals while walking to a local shop. Pitskhelauri links the attack to his civic activities.

29 January 2025

Citizens held another protest outside the Government House of Adjara in Batumi against the policies of the ruling Georgian Dream party and brought tents to the site of the demonstration. During the protest, police restricted the participants’ freedom of expression by preventing the use of protest tents and confiscating the tents brought by demonstrators.

20 January 2025

Film director Guram Matskhonashvili was fined GEL 2,000 by the court.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs charged him under Articles 173 and 174 of the Code of Administrative Offences, relating to failure to comply with a lawful order of a police officer and wearing a face covering during a protest.

Matskhonashvili had previously been detained by law enforcement officers during the protest outside the Glldani-Nadzaladevi Police Department No. VII together with several other activists.

27 January 2025

The Zugdidi District Court imposed a GEL 2,000 fine on Mariam Sichinava, a political activist of the Droa party, for wearing a face covering during a protest, under Article 174 of the Code of Administrative Offences.

30 January 2025

Nino Khazalashvili, an employee of the Samtskhe-Javakheti Destination Management Organisation, stated that she was dismissed from her position after reacting (“haha” reaction) to a social media post.

According to Khazalashvili, for several weeks she had expressed reactions to social media posts related to civic activism, and believes that these reactions were the reason for her dismissal.