After the elections, the Georgian people have taken to the streets, bravely standing up against police violence and persecution as they protest fraudulent elections and the Georgian Dream (GD) party’s decision to abandon the constitutional goal of European Union (EU) integration.
This unfolding crisis cannot be seen in isolation but must be understood in the broader context of the Georgian Dream’s 12-year rule. From manipulating the 2020 elections to enacting repressive laws and undermining the democratic process in October 2024, these protests are a direct response to years of undemocratic governance and systemic oppression.
The intensifying violence and human rights abuses of the past days have brought Georgia’s political and social crisis to the forefront. The use of excessive force by police, security forces, and regime-backed groups signals a troubling descent into autocracy. The Norwegian Helsinki Committee strongly condemns this violence against civilians and urges the immediate organisation of new, free, and fair elections to restore democracy in Georgia.
Background
Mass protests erupted on November 28th, following the Georgian Dream’s announcement that Georgia would put all negotiations with the EU on hold until the end of 2028 and decline the EU budget grant support. This announcement came in the wake of the parliamentary elections held on 26 October 2024, which were marred by widespread irregularities, including threats and vote-buying.
The decision to suspend EU integration efforts violates Article 78 of the Georgian Constitution, which obligates state bodies to use all available means to advance Georgia’s integration into the European Union. Perhaps most significantly, it disregards the will of the Georgian people, as opinion polls consistently show that over 80% of Georgians support EU membership.
Observers from the Norwegian Helsinki Committee (NHC) and our local partner organisations who were present during the elections have previously reported serious irregularities. In the areas observed, the parliamentary elections held in Georgia on 26 October fell short of fundamental standards for free and fair elections. The NHC has issued a statement highlighting the need for accountability and reform.
Systematic Violence
Over the past few days, we have witnessed unlawful and large-scale violence exercised against people fighting for the future of their country.
Reports and statements reveal excessive use of force by the police and special forces, backed by the Georgian Dream, along with widespread violence and illegal arrests against the population. Special forces use tear gas and water cannons, often together, and in disregard of the safety rules for their deployment.
Journalists, civil activists, and opposition leaders have been primary targets of repression, facing brutal assaults and unlawful detention. To date, over 400 individuals have been arrested across Georgia.
Instead of condemning and prosecuting the widespread acts of violence, the Georgian Dream appears to support impunity, praising the police for their exceptional compliance with their duties. The Georgian Dream government appears to be consolidating power, drawing comparisons to autocratic regimes in Azerbaijan, Belarus, and Russia.
Calls for Intervention
In light of the escalating crisis, the Norwegian Helsinki Committee issues an urgent appeal for international action. We recommend:
- Investigation of Violence: Cases of unlawful violence, including alleged torture, should be investigated by an impartial body to hold perpetrators accountable.
- New, Fair Elections: Transparent and independent elections, facilitated by international observers, are essential to restoring public trust in Georgia’s democratic institutions.
- Sanctions on Georgian Leaders and others responsible for abuses: Senior officials of the Georgian Dream government and security services responsible for abuses should face targeted sanctions.
A Crossroads for Georgia
Georgia’s future hangs in the balance. Protesters demand new, fair elections and a return to the EU path. The international community must act decisively to support the Georgian people in pursuing democracy and human rights. Failing to address the crisis risks establishing an autocratic regime that disregards the will of its people and the principles of justice and accountability.
This moment has created a stark new reality in Georgia. On one side stand the Georgian people, resolute in their fight for democracy and their country’s European future. On the other side is the Georgian Dream party, which has maintained power for the past 12 years and employs every means to extend its rule for at least another four years.
The coming weeks will be pivotal in determining whether Georgia reaffirms its commitment to democratic values or succumbs to authoritarianism. The international community’s role will be critical in shaping this outcome, and its response must reflect the urgency and gravity of the situation.