Tbilisi

Due to financial difficulties, ‘Formula’ is changing its broadcasting schedule

Due to financial difficulties, the “Formula” television company is changing its broadcasting schedule and reducing its staff. This was announced on the evening of July 5 by the channel’s director, Misha Mshvildadze, during the weekly wrap-up show. He stated that optimization is necessary for the channel to survive the financial crisis and continue broadcasting: “This will be the response to what ‘Formula’ has faced as a result of the government’s major efforts. This is very heavy news, especially for a television station; all of our employees are already like brothers-in-arms. This was not a regular path that this media outlet took—it was an outright battle.”

On July 6, the early morning show did not air. Broadcasting began at 12:00 PM with a modified program called “Gamarjoba Sakartvelo” (Hello Georgia). The host of this show, Irakli Kiknavelidze, stated that “Formula” employees have been working without salaries for months: “For a long time now, we, the employees of ‘Formula’, haven’t known what it means to receive timely and full compensation, but we still manage to do this job in a way that hasn’t affected our ratings—quite the opposite, actually. ‘Formula’ must survive! This broadcast must not go dark! This is our goal, and based on this goal, we are ready to accept any painful decision.”

Formula TV journalist Natuka Lomadze summoned to Prosecutor’s Office

Within the scope of the criminal case launched against the “Formula” television company, another journalist from the channel and author of the report, Natuka Lomadze, was summoned to the Prosecutor’s Office of Georgia. The journalist’s questioning lasted for three hours.

“The investigator was interested in how I, as a journalist, worked on this report. Who were the people with whom I attempted to verify the information our source was telling us? Of course, there were many such people,” the journalist told Media Checker.

On June 16, 2026, the Investigative Division of the Tbilisi Prosecutor’s Office launched a criminal case against Formula TV under Article 373, Part 1 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which pertains to false denunciation (false accusation). The investigation was initiated based on a statement filed by Goga Khaindrava, a film director and supporter of the “Georgian Dream” party. He accuses “Formula” of falsely implicating him in a potential crime. The case concerns reports broadcast on the show Shabatis Formula (Saturday’s Formula) on December 20, 2025, and January 17, 2026. According to the source in these reports, Goga Khaindrava was bringing foreign citizens into Georgia in exchange for money. Reportedly, the Prosecutor’s Office is disputing the false denunciation against Formula’s source.

Within the scope of the same case, the author and host of the program, Davit Kashiashvili, was also questioned at the Prosecutor’s Office.

Due to the same reports, Goga Khaindrava also has an ongoing civil dispute against “Formula.” He is suing the television company for defamation and is demanding 10,000 GEL in compensation for moral damages.

Coordinated cyberattack on Studio Monitor’s online platforms

On July 1, 2026, a coordinated cyberattack was launched against the online platforms of the investigative journalistic agency “Studio Monitor.”

According to the outlet, the media organization became a target after publishing an investigative report titled “Trump Tower” in Tbilisi – A Fraudulent Online Casino Network and Russian Connections. The publication reported that a group of users began mass-reporting (“dereporting”) all materials on YouTube and Facebook/Instagram that detailed the potential links between Georgian construction companies and an unlicensed online casino network. “Studio Monitor” has recently published two investigative reports on this topic.

“As a result of this coordinated cyberattack, META notified us that several of ‘Monitor’s’ materials had been removed from their platforms, and one video was taken down from YouTube—specifically those concerning the ties between Georgian companies and the unlicensed online casino network. Furthermore, we received an email from an address linked to various fraudulent networks, demanding the removal of our investigative report from the ‘Monitor’ website,” the outlet’s statement reads.

“Monitor” has appealed the decisions made by YouTube and Meta and is currently working to identify who is behind this coordinated attack.

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 – October 2025

Context

The incidents documented in October 2025 indicate a further intensification of repressive practices related to protest activities. Within the framework of the present monitoring, 18 documented incidents demonstrate that both administrative and criminal prosecution of protest participants actively continued throughout the month. Courts imposed administrative detention on numerous individuals, while the Ministry of Internal Affairs launched mass detentions on the grounds of road obstruction and covering one’s face.

During the same period, Georgian Dream adopted legislative amendments that significantly tightened restrictions related to the freedoms of assembly and expression. In parallel, a case of a physical attack against activists was also documented.

Incidents

On 1 October 2025, Judge Nana Shamatava of the Tbilisi City Court granted the Prosecutor’s Office’s motion and imposed pre-trial detention as a preventive measure on Gela Khasaia, an activist of the Coalition for Change. Khasaia was charged under Article 118(2) of the Criminal Code (intentional less serious bodily injury committed by a group), which provides for a prison sentence of between four and six years.

The activist had been arrested by representatives of the Ministry of Internal Affairs on 29 September. According to his lawyer, the case concerns a conflict that occurred on 1 September near Station Square, involving individuals unknown to Gela Khasaia, which he merely witnessed. Lawyer Omar Purtseladze stated that while Khasaia was held at the police station, he was subjected to verbal abuse and psychological pressure. According to Purtseladze, one police officer reminded Khasaia of an earlier incident in which the officer had promised that Khasaia would be “arrested under criminal law.”

On 3 October 2025, students who had gathered on Metekhi Bridge to make a public statement were attacked by unidentified individuals and physically assaulted. Igor Narmania, Chairperson of the United National Movement’s Youth Organisation, was injured. The attackers also physically assaulted a minor activist, who was reportedly struck on the head with a piece of metal.

On 9 October 2025, Judge Giorgi Gelashvili of the Tbilisi City Court sentenced poet Zviad Ratiani to two years’ imprisonment. The Prosecutor’s Office had charged the poet under Article 353¹ of the Criminal Code for attacking a police officer; however, the judge reclassified the charge under Article 353(1) of the Criminal Code, which criminalises resistance against a police officer with the purpose of obstructing, terminating, or altering the officer’s activities in maintaining public order. Zviad Ratiani had been arrested on 23 June 2025 after slapping police officer Teimuraz Meshvelashvili outside the Parliament building in Tbilisi.

On 16 October 2025, Georgian Dream adopted, at third reading, amendments to the Criminal Code and the Code of Administrative Offences that restrict the forms of protest available to demonstrators. Under the expedited legislative package, a new paragraph 10 was added to Article 174¹ of the Code of Administrative Offences, introducing mandatory administrative detention for participants in assemblies or demonstrations who commit any of the following acts:

covering one’s face with a mask or by any other means;
possessing tear gas, nerve agents and/or poisonous substances;
intentionally creating obstacles to the movement of people or vehicles;
erecting temporary structures where such structures obstruct police efforts to maintain public order and safety;
partially or fully blocking the carriageway where, considering the number of participants, the assembly could otherwise be conducted without doing so.

Violation of these provisions is punishable by:

administrative detention for up to 15 days;
where the offender is an organiser, administrative detention for up to 20 days.

The amendments also introduced mandatory administrative detention of up to 60 days where participants:

possess firearms, explosives, flammable materials, radioactive substances, cold weapons, or pyrotechnic items;
possess objects or substances that are used or could be used to cause harm to the life or health of participants or other persons;
participate in an assembly or demonstration that has been terminated upon the request of the Ministry of Internal Affairs under Article 13(1) of the Law on Assemblies and Demonstrations.

The amendments to the Criminal Code further provide that repeated commission of the above-mentioned acts within one year will constitute a criminal offence punishable by:

imprisonment for up to one year;
imprisonment for up to two years if committed repeatedly;
for minors, a fine, corrective labour, or imprisonment for up to one year;
where committed by an organiser and resulting in serious consequences, imprisonment for up to four years.

The amendments further provide that a third violation of Article 173 of the Code of Administrative Offences (failure to comply with or insulting a police officer) constitutes a criminal offence punishable by:

imprisonment for up to one year for a third offence;
imprisonment for up to two years if committed repeatedly;
for minors, a fine, corrective labour, or imprisonment for up to one year.

On 16 October 2025, Georgian Dream, under the expedited procedure, adopted at third reading a legislative package providing for restrictions on the right of certain individuals to engage in party activities, hold political office, and participate in elections. Under the legislative package, upon the request of the claimant in proceedings before the Constitutional Court, the Constitutional Court may prohibit a person affiliated with a banned political party from:

establishing a political party;
membership in a political party;
membership in the governing body of a political party;
holding a party position;
standing as a candidate in elections (passive electoral right);
acquiring the mandate of an elected representative or elected public official;
holding political office;
heading a constitutional body.

Where requested by the claimant, granting the constitutional claim will also result in:

termination of the mandate of a Member of Parliament elected through the nomination of the banned political party;
termination of the mandate of a member of another representative body;
removal of a person from a party list.

Registration shall be refused to any political party whose electoral list includes a person prohibited from engaging in party activities or holding political office. A political party that includes such a person on its list shall be subject to a fine.

Likewise, it will be prohibited to include such persons on party lists for parliamentary or local self-government elections. The Central Election Commission will refuse to register such parties for either parliamentary or local elections.

On 17 October 2025, Judge Davit Mamiseishvili of the Tbilisi Court of Appeal reclassified the charge against Giorgi Kuchuashvili from assault on a police officer under Article 353¹ of the Criminal Code to resistance to a police officer under Article 353 of the Criminal Code and sentenced him to two years’ imprisonment. Kuchuashvili had been arrested during protests against the so-called “Russian Law” in May 2024. On 4 February 2025, he had been sentenced to four years’ imprisonment. Following the appellate judgment reducing his sentence to two years, he was released from prison on 26 May.

On 19 October 2025, the Ministry of Internal Affairs administratively detained 12 participants in the protest held on Rustaveli Avenue on 18 October. Those detained were: Lara Nachkebia, Nino Svanidze, Levan Margiani, Giorgi Qiasashvili, Davit Gogichaishvili, Saba Khomeriki, Levan Jobava, Tornike Tkhilava, Gela Gamqrelidze, Vakhtang Machavariani, Lasha Chkhartishvili, and Mamuka Kupreishvili. The wave of detentions followed the legislative amendments adopted by Georgian Dream on 16 October to the Criminal Code and the Code of Administrative Offences, which significantly restricted the forms of protest available to citizens.

Proceedings concerning the 12 detainees were held before the Tbilisi City Court on 20 October. The Ministry of Internal Affairs accused some of the detainees of “artificially blocking the roadway,” while others were charged with covering their faces during the protest.

Seven of the twelve detainees were sentenced to administrative detention:

activist Lara Nachkebia – 4 days (covering the face with a mask);
activist Nino Svanidze – 5 days (blocking the roadway);
painter Levan Margiani – 6 days (blocking the roadway);
activist Giorgi Qiasashvili – 6 days (blocking the roadway);
activist Davit Gogichaishvili – 6 days (covering the face with a mask);
activist Saba Khomeriki – 8 days (blocking the roadway);
activist Levan Jobava – 14 days (blocking the roadway).

On 20 October 2025, representatives of the Ministry of Internal Affairs detained four participants in the ongoing protest on Rustaveli Avenue: Nino Beruashvili, Saba Japaridze, Tamar Totladze, and Temo Saralidze. Proceedings concerning the detainees were held before the Tbilisi City Court on the same day. The Ministry accused two of them of artificially blocking the roadway and the other two of covering their faces during the protest.

The court imposed administrative detention on all four detainees:

activist Nino Beruashvili – 4 days (blocking the roadway);
actor Saba Japaridze – 6 days (covering the face during the protest);
activist Tamar Totladze – 6 days (blocking the roadway);
activist Temo Saralidze – 6 days (covering the face during the protest).

On 21 October 2025, the Ministry of Internal Affairs began detaining participants in the Rustaveli Avenue protest from the early morning. During the day, law enforcement officers detained five additional activists: Beka Kurkhuli, Kakha Mikaia, Konstantine Mikaia, Boris Kutsia, and Imeda Kldiashvili. All of them were accused either of covering their faces during the protest or of “artificially blocking the roadway.” The Tbilisi City Court imposed administrative detention on all five activists for violating the newly introduced protest-related regulations.

Specifically:

Beka Kurkhuli – 8 days of administrative detention;
Kakha Mikaia – 14 days of administrative detention;
Konstantine Mikaia – 14 days of administrative detention;
Imeda Kldiashvili – 9 days of administrative detention.

On 22 October 2025, the Ministry of Internal Affairs issued a statement. According to the Ministry, during the previous three days, after the new law restricting freedom of expression entered into force, police detained 53 individuals, more than 40 of whom had already been found to have committed administrative offences. Within the framework of the present monitoring, 22 cases were documented. In addition, between 19 and 21 October, the Ministry of Internal Affairs detained three journalists together with activists. Based on the data published by the Ministry, it was not possible to identify an additional 28 detained persons.

On 22 October 2025, during a protest on Rustaveli Avenue, the Ministry of Internal Affairs administratively detained up to 20 citizens. The wave of detentions followed the amendments adopted by Georgian Dream on 16 October to the Criminal Code and the Code of Administrative Offences, which significantly restricted the forms of protest available to citizens. The Ministry of Internal Affairs began administrative detentions at the Rustaveli protest on 18 October on the grounds of unlawful blocking of the roadway and covering one’s face.

On 22 October 2025, 48-year-old Tamar Lortkipanidze was arrested during the ongoing protest on Rustaveli Avenue for climbing onto a patrol police vehicle.

Footage circulated by citizens shows Tamar, together with several other protest participants, first sitting on the roadway, then standing up, spreading her arms, and attempting to stop the movement of vehicles. Approximately two minutes later, a patrol police vehicle appears in the footage from Freedom Square. Tamar then stands several metres in front of the police vehicle and spreads her arms. A few seconds later, she runs towards the patrol vehicle, climbs onto it, and stands on its roof. Shortly afterwards, Tamar Lortkipanidze climbs down from the vehicle on her own and again stands on the roadway with her arms spread. For this act, the Ministry of Internal Affairs initially accused her of an offence under Article 239 of the Criminal Code. However, on 24 October, the Prosecutor’s Office of Georgia aggravated the charge and now accuses the activist of violence and attacking a police vehicle.

Tamar Lortkipanidze is charged with:

violence causing physical pain to the victim, under Article 126(1) of the Criminal Code of Georgia;
attacking a police vehicle in connection with the official activities of a police officer, an offence under Article 353¹(1) of the Criminal Code.

If convicted, she faces four to seven years’ imprisonment. As for the preventive measure, on 25 October Judge Nana Shamatava imposed pre-trial detention on Tamar Lortkipanidze.

On 22 October 2025, disability rights advocate Gia Jvarsheishvili was detained during the protest on Rustaveli Avenue. On 24 October, Judge Zviad Tsekvava of the Tbilisi City Court sentenced the detained activist to 10 days of administrative detention. The Ministry of Internal Affairs accused him of petty hooliganism and failure to comply with a lawful order of a police officer.

On 22 October 2025, during the protest on Rustaveli Avenue, the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) administratively detained approximately 20 individuals. The wave of detentions followed the amendments to the Criminal Code and the Code of Administrative Offences adopted by Georgian Dream on 16 October, which significantly restricted the forms of protest available to citizens. The MIA began administratively detaining participants in the Rustaveli Avenue protests on 18 October on the grounds of unlawfully blocking the roadway and covering their faces.

On 24 October 2025, police detained several activists for participating in the protest held on Rustaveli Avenue on 23 October and for blocking the avenue. Those detained included:

Bacho Kimutsadze – member of the Coalition for Change;
Natia Letodiani – member of the Droa party;
Davit Mshvenieradze – law student at Ilia State University (sentenced to 6 days of administrative detention);
Nino Laghidze – environmental education specialist;
Zura Tsetskhladze – father of prisoner of conscience Zviad Tsetskhladze;
Tengo Kirtadze – member of the Federalists party;
Anuka Gamsakhurdia – civil activist;
Dani Maghradze – civil activist;
Zviad Kvaratskhelia – writer, publisher, and television presenter;
Giorgi Liponava – film director and co-founder of Formula TV;
Achi Gochitashvili – student (sentenced to 10 days of administrative detention);
Vaso Beridze – student;
Natia Gogava – civil activist;
Natalia Slepakova – civil activist;
Davit Chkadua – winner of the second student season of the television programme Book Shelf;
Giorgi Melitauri (sentenced to 10 days of administrative detention).

On 29 October 2025, Judge Tamar Mchedlishvili of the Tbilisi City Court replaced the preventive measure imposed on teacher Nino Datashvili from pre-trial detention to bail in the amount of GEL 5,000. Datashvili had been charged under Article 353²(3) of the Criminal Code of Georgia (assault on a public official/court bailiff in the course of performing official duties). Following the decision, the teacher and activist was released from the penitentiary institution. She was given 30 days to pay the bail.

The Prosecutor’s Office announced its motion to replace the preventive measure only a few minutes before the hearing commenced. Datashvili’s lawyers had also requested the replacement of pre-trial detention, arguing that her health had deteriorated significantly while in detention and that she urgently required spinal and cervical surgery. Due to her deteriorating health condition, Datashvili was unable to attend the hearing in person and participated remotely.

On 29 October 2025, Judge Lela Tsagareishvili sentenced researcher Shalva Koghuashvili to six days of administrative detention. The Ministry of Internal Affairs accused him of an administrative offence under Article 174¹ of the Code of Administrative Offences for artificially blocking the roadway during the protest on 27 October.

Between 27 and 31 October 2025, according to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, 29 citizens were detained during protests on Rustaveli Avenue over a five-day period. The Ministry accused them of unlawfully blocking Rustaveli Avenue, conduct which, under the legislative package adopted at third reading on 16 October, is punishable by mandatory administrative detention without the possibility of a fine.

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 – October 2024

Context

The incidents documented in October 2024 indicate the continuation of pressure against individuals engaged in civic activism and the expression of critical opinions. During the reporting period, both physical attacks and the use of investigative and administrative mechanisms were documented, affecting researchers, representatives of civil society, and individuals affiliated with international organisations.

Particular attention during October was drawn to measures taken against researchers and representatives of analytical organisations, including searches and restrictions on access to bank accounts. A number of domestic and international actors assessed these measures as a form of pressure against civil society and critical research activities.

During the same period, the Constitutional Court’s decision not to suspend the operation of the so-called “Russian Law” further intensified concerns regarding its potential impact on civic space and the activities of independent organisations in the country.

Incidents

On 10 October 2024, the Plenum of the Constitutional Court of Georgia decided not to suspend the operation of the Law on Transparency of Foreign Influence, commonly referred to as the “Russian Law,” pending the Court’s final judgment. Despite the applicants’ request, the Court did not grant the motion to suspend the contested provisions. However, it declared the constitutional complaints partially admissible for examination on the merits. The decision adopted by the Plenum of the Constitutional Court was published on the Court’s official website.

On 19 October 2024, Badri Oqujava, a researcher at SovLab, was attacked by a group of individuals at the intersection of Barnovi and Machavariani Streets. According to Oqujava, approximately ten individuals attacked him while he was on his way to work. Women were also among the perpetrators. The researcher believes that the attack was premeditated and politically motivated. According to his account, the attackers repeatedly struck him in the back and then poured paint over him.

Between 24 and 29 October 2024, investigators from the Investigation Service of the Ministry of Finance conducted searches at the homes of Eto Buziashvili and Sopho Gelava, two employees of the U.S.-based organisation the Atlantic Council. Computer equipment was seized from their homes. Investigators from the Financial Police Investigation Service also searched the residence of brothers Onise and Sandro Tskhadadze. According to members of Onise Tskhadadze’s family, investigators stated that the reason for the search was his employment with an international company.

On 29 October, pursuant to a court order, the bank accounts of Sopho Gelava and Eto Buziashvili were frozen. According to the Financial Police, the court authorised this measure within the framework of the so-called “call centre case.” As a result, both researchers working on Russian disinformation were denied access to their personal bank accounts. The U.S. Helsinki Commission also commented on the case, describing the freezing of the bank accounts as an attempt to exert pressure on Georgia’s civil society and the Atlantic Council.

Documented Incidents Against Civil Activists – November 2025

Context

The incidents documented in November 2025 demonstrate the systematic practice of detentions and administrative imprisonment of individuals participating in protest demonstrations, particularly in relation to allegations of the “artificial blocking of the roadway” on Rustaveli Avenue. During the reporting period, numerous citizens were subjected to both short-term and multi-day administrative detention.

In addition, a case of criminal detention was documented, in which the Prosecutor’s Office accused a civil activist of repeatedly and artificially blocking the roadway, and the court imposed pre-trial detention as a preventive measure. During the same period, appellate proceedings in the cases of the so-called “prisoners of conscience” continued, with the Court of Appeal, in most instances, upholding the judgments delivered by the Tbilisi City Court.

November also saw incidents involving restrictions on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, when police prevented participants from continuing a protest march. At the same time, an incident of physical violence was documented, involving an attack against a participant in the pro-European protests.

Overall, the incidents documented in November confirm the continued active use of legal and administrative mechanisms against individuals involved in protest activities, as well as incidents of physical retaliation against civil activists.

Incidents

On 1 November 2025, Zurab Menteshashvili was detained under Article 347(1) of the Criminal Code. The Prosecutor’s Office accused him of repeatedly and artificially blocking the roadway during an ongoing protest on Rustaveli Avenue. On 3 November, Judge Lali Garshaulishvili of the Tbilisi City Court ordered his pre-trial detention as a preventive measure.

On 1 November 2025, former representative of the Euro-Atlantic Integration Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, diplomat Giorgi Tsikariashvili, who had been detained on charges of blocking the roadway, was sentenced by Judge Tornike Kochqiani to 10 days of administrative detention.

On 1 November 2025, police began detaining participants in the protest taking place on Rustaveli Avenue. According to participants, Levan Butikashvili was detained opposite the Marriott Hotel.

On 4 November 2025, police detained participants in the Rustaveli protest near the Parliament building. Those detained included poet Paata Shamugia, Beka Agulashvili, Vazha Berishvili, Anuka Gamsakhurdia and Nikoloz Darsania. The Ministry of Internal Affairs accused them of “artificially blocking” Rustaveli Avenue. Hearings concerning the activists detained on the grounds of “artificially blocking the roadway” on Rustaveli Avenue were held at the Tbilisi City Court on 5 November.

Poet Paata Shamugia was sentenced to five days of administrative detention.

Anuka Gamsakhurdia was sentenced to two days of administrative detention.

Nikoloz Darsania was sentenced to three days of administrative detention.

Seventy-year-old Vazha Berishvili was sentenced to one day of administrative detention. He was released from the temporary detention facility several hours later.

Beka Agulashvili was sentenced to five days of administrative detention.

On 5 November 2025, Rusiko Kobakhidze, a researcher of the Soviet past, educator and historian, was detained by police on charges of artificially blocking the roadway. Later that night, Judge Koba Chagunava of the Tbilisi City Court sentenced her to one day of administrative detention.

On 6 November 2025, during the protest held in front of the Parliament building on Rustaveli Avenue, police detained 15-year-old Andria Khamashuridze. Video footage circulated publicly shows police officers using force to place the minor into a police vehicle. He was subsequently released.

On 6 November 2025, Nugzar Kirtadze, a participant in the pro-European protests, stated that so-called “Titushky” ambushed him near his home and severely beat him. According to Kirtadze, at least two masked individuals were waiting for him in the entrance of his apartment building and struck him from behind. As a result of the injuries sustained, he reportedly lost consciousness for several minutes.

On 7 November 2025, civil activist Baia Margishvili, who had been sentenced by Judge Zviad Tsekvava to 14 days of administrative detention, was detained in the courtyard of the courthouse. The Ministry of Internal Affairs accused Margishvili of artificially blocking the roadway.

On 7 November 2025, Konstantine Mikaia was sentenced to one day of administrative detention. The decision was delivered by Judge Koba Chagunava. The Ministry of Internal Affairs accused him of artificially blocking the roadway on 19 and 20 October.

On 12 November 2025, the Tbilisi Court of Appeal, in a decision delivered by Judge Giorgi Keratishvili, upheld the two-year prison sentence imposed on activist Saba Skhvitaridze, who had been detained during the pro-European protest movement.

Saba Skhvitaridze had been detained on the night of 5 December 2024 following a physical confrontation that took place at Freedom Square. The incident had been preceded by clashes between members of the public and unidentified individuals dressed in black, who had gathered near the Courtyard Marriott Hotel during a parallel opposition meeting.

The investigation was initially conducted under Article 353¹(2) of the Criminal Code, which concerns causing injury to the health of a police officer in the course of the performance of official duties. During the court proceedings, however, the Prosecutor’s Office reclassified the charges and accused Skhvitaridze under Article 120 of the Criminal Code. Ultimately, Judge Jvebe Nachkebia found the activist guilty under Article 120(1) (intentional infliction of minor bodily injury) and sentenced him to two years’ imprisonment. This judgment was subsequently upheld by Judge Giorgi Keratishvili of the Tbilisi Court of Appeal.

On 13 November 2025, Judge Koba Chagunava sentenced Rusiko Kobakhidze, researcher of the Soviet past, educator and historian, to three days of administrative detention for a second time on the grounds of blocking the roadway under Article 174 of the Code of Administrative Offences.

On 15 November 2025, in Tbilisi, near Zandukeli Street, police blocked the route of protest participants and prevented them from continuing along the pedestrian walkway. Police officers had established a cordon at the scene. The participants intended to march to the Merab Kostava House Museum.

On 19 November 2025, during a solidarity march in support of prisoner of conscience Mate Devidze, police detained Ketevan Khuskivadze, a lecturer at Tbilisi State University and a translator. According to Goga Memanishvili, Head of the Tbilisi Patrol Police, Khuskivadze was administratively detained on charges of verbally insulting a police officer.

On 22 November 2025, police began detaining participants during a protest demonstration. Film director Giorgi Savaneli was detained on the grounds of alleged petty hooliganism. Also detained were Luka Chokhonelidze, Oto Iremadze, Davit Gunashvili, Mariam Meqantsvili, Tsotne Mirtskhulava and Sopho Markozia.

On 24 November, film director Giorgi Savaneli, who had been detained during the protest, was sentenced to five days of administrative detention. The decision was delivered by Judge Nino Enukidze.

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 2025

Context

The incidents documented in May 2025 reflect the use of legal, administrative, and indirect mechanisms to exert pressure on civil activists. The documented cases involve administrative detention, the imposition of financial sanctions, and decisions targeting individual activists that affect their legal status and civil rights.

The reporting period is particularly notable for the use of financial sanctions, indicating the systematic nature of sanctioning practices. In addition, an incident of indirect pressure (chilling effect) against an activist was documented.

Furthermore, legislative developments affecting the functioning of civil society are of particular concern. During the reporting period, a law entered into force that further tightened the legal framework governing the activities of non-governmental organisations and the media, thereby contributing to the creation of an environment in which civic activism and freedom of expression are placed under severe pressure.

Incidents

On 1 May 2025, the Tbilisi City Court heard the case of Miranda Baghaturia and Ana Qurashvili, press officers of the opposition political parties Akhali and Girchi – More Freedom. A representative of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA), Tamta Kimbarishvili, requested that the activists be subjected to administrative detention. However, the court instead imposed GEL 4,000 fines on both Qurashvili and Baghaturia. They had been accused under Article 173(2) of the Code of Administrative Offences of insulting police officer Mirian Kavtaradze. It is noteworthy that on 1 June 2025, Tamta Kimbarishvili was appointed Head of the Hate Speech Monitoring Division of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

On 5 May 2025, three activist women – Nutsa Makharadze, Keti Jananashvili, and their friend were reportedly attacked near a residential building. According to Makharadze, the attackers ambushed them as they exited an elevator and sprayed pepper spray and green dye into their faces before fleeing the scene. Makharadze later stated that, despite the existence of potential evidence, including the bottle allegedly used in the attack, she had not been informed of meaningful investigative progress.

On 19 May 2025, Lasha Gabitashvili, a participant in the pro-European protests who became publicly known following an incident involving members of the ruling Georgian Dream party in Abu Dhabi, was deprived of Georgian citizenship. The stated reason was his acquisition of dual citizenship. Gabitashvili obtained an Israeli passport following his marriage and applied to the Ministry of Justice in February 2025 to retain his Georgian citizenship. According to legal experts, there were no legal grounds for revoking Gabitashvili’s citizenship, and he could have retained Georgian citizenship while simultaneously holding the citizenship of another state.

On 26 May 2025, political activist Luka Natsvlishvili was detained by police following the conclusion of a protest held in Batumi on 26 May. The Batumi City Court sentenced the activist to 12 days of administrative detention. The Ministry of Internal Affairs accused Natsvlishvili of petty hooliganism and failure to comply with a lawful order of a police officer.

On 30 May 2025, Judge Nino Enukidze of the Tbilisi City Court sentenced Tornike Skhvitaridze to five days of administrative detention and imposed a GEL 5,000 fine on Ani Kavtaradze. The Ministry of Internal Affairs accused Ani Kavtaradze, a member of the Akhali party, and Tornike Skhvitaridze, the brother of imprisoned activist Saba Skhvitaridze, of insulting police officer Mirian Kavtaradze in a courthouse corridor on 17 April. On that day, Mirian Kavtaradze testified as a witness in the criminal proceedings against detained activist and Akhali party member Saba Skhvitaridze. During the testimony, Tornike Skhvitaridze was inside the courtroom, while Ani Kavtaradze remained outside. After the police officer’s testimony concluded, supporters of Saba Skhvitaridze formed a so-called “corridor of shame” for Mirian Kavtaradze.

Also on 30 May 2025, Judge Manuchar Tsatsua of the Tbilisi City Court sentenced activists Tatia Apriamashvili and Lika Lortkipanidze to 12 days of administrative detention each, while Magda Mamukashvili was fined GEL 4,000. The decision related to an incident that occurred on 17 May at a café, where the activists protested against Georgian Dream Member of Parliament Mariam Lashkhi by chanting: “Freedom for the regime’s prisoners,” “No to the Russian regime,” and “Down with Russia’s slaves.”

As of 31 May 2025, the Foreign Agents Registration Act, adopted by Georgian Dream on 1 April and commonly referred to as the “Georgian FARA,” entered into force. The Anti-Corruption Bureau is responsible for enforcing the law. Unlike the United States Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), the Georgian law specifically targets Georgian non-governmental organisations and media outlets. The law requires registration, disclosure of relevant documentation, and the submission of annual financial declarations. Failure to comply, or improper compliance, with these obligations is punishable by up to five years’ imprisonment or a fine for natural persons, and by a fine for legal entities.

It is noteworthy that the Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA) has already lodged a constitutional complaint with the Constitutional Court of Georgia seeking the suspension of the Georgian FARA law. The co-applicants are the media organisations Studio Monitor and Georgia’s Ambebi. The constitutional complaint was filed on 15 May 2025.