With the arrival of spring, popular protests all over Georgia continue, having endured what felt like a long and difficult winter, while repression has intensified. Georgia finds itself internationally isolated from its traditional partners. Relations with the EU, the US, and traditional partners are at an all-time low. The Georgian Dream sits alone in the rump parliament, although its two offshoots – People’s Power and the European Socialists – try to give the appearance of opposition. The legitimacy of the parliament, the government, and the new president is hotly contested. Georgian Dream has introduced a series of repressive laws aimed at further stifling dissent, independent media and civil society. 49 protesters remain in prison on criminal charges, as does the founder and director of Batumelebi/Netgazeti Mzia Amaghlobeli. Despite brutal police repression, protesters across the country continue to demand new elections and the release of all those unlawfully detained during the authorities’ repression.
For developments in 2024, refer to our previous: Liveblog: Resistance 2024, Liveblog: Resistance 2025,Vol. 1
Sunday, March 16
21:30 – Rustaveli Avenue Blocked Again
For the 109th consecutive day, protesters blocked Rustaveli Avenue, demanding new elections and the release of those arrested during the past three months of protests.
11:00 – Planned Protests Timeline
The fight for democracy and European integration continues as nationwide protests reach their 109th day, with demonstrators demanding the release of detained protesters and new elections. In Tbilisi, today’s demonstrations will begin at 19:00 near the Public Broadcaster’s office, followed by a larger gathering at 20:00 near Parliament. Protests are also spreading across other cities: a demonstration in Gori at 17:00 in front of the Municipality Council calling for “Freedom for Political Prisoners,” and rallies at 18:00 in Akhaltsikhe by the Shota Rustaveli statue and in Zugdidi in front of the Regional Administration, while in Telavi, protests will continue at City Hall. At 19:00, citizens in Kutaisi will gather in front of City Hall under the slogan “Yes to Europe, No to Russia!”, another protest is planned in Batumi, titled “In Service to the Homeland,” in front of the Constitutional Court. Later in the evening, at 20:00, demonstrators in Chkhorotsku will continue their daily protests near City Hall, ensuring the movement for democracy and European integration remains strong across the country.
Saturday, March 15
22:40 – A Journalist Allegedly Attacked by MIA Special Forces Officer
Editor-in-chief of the “Mtis Ambebi” publication Gela Mtivlishvili wrote on his Facebook page that he was attacked by an armed officer of the Interior Ministry’s special forces on the highway near the village of Tserovani. Footage of the incident later surfaced on Facebook, showing the armed man dressed in black behaving aggressively and allegedly cursing at Mtivlishvili.
21:30 – Rustaveli Avenue Blocked
For the 108th consecutive day, protesters blocked Rustaveli Avenue, demanding new elections and the release of those arrested during the past three months of protests.
15:00 – Omar Okribelashvili Allegedly Forcibly Transfered to Rustavi Prison
Omar Okribelashvili, who was arrested on May 14, 2024 for allegedly damaging the iron barrier at the entrance to Parliament, causing 400 GEL [US$145] in damage to the state, is reportedly being forcibly transferred from Gldani to Rustavi prison, according to his father and his lawyer. His father said that he had received a call from Omar who notified him about the transfer. Despite submitting documents to prevent the transfer, Okribelashvili’s father says the authorities still intend to transfer him. Confirming the situation, the lawyer said: “We immediately contacted the Special Investigation Service and informed them today that there is coercion against Omar Okribelashvili.”
11:00 – Planned Protests Timeline
The fight for democracy and European integration continues as nationwide protests reach their 108th day, with demonstrators demanding the release of detained protesters and new elections. In Tbilisi, today’s demonstrations will begin at 19:00 near the Public Broadcaster’s office, followed by a larger gathering at 20:00 near Parliament. Protests are also spreading across other cities: a solidarity protest in Chiatura at 13:00, a demonstration in Gori at 17:00 in front of the Municipality Council calling for “Freedom for Political Prisoners,” and rallies at 18:00 in Akhaltsikhe by the Shota Rustaveli statue and in Zugdidi in front of the Regional Administration, while in Telavi, protests will continue at City Hall. At 19:00, citizens in Kutaisi will gather in front of City Hall under the slogan “Yes to Europe, No to Russia!” followed by a public lecture at 20:00. Another 19:00 protest is planned in Batumi, titled “In Service to the Homeland,” in front of the Constitutional Court. Later in the evening, at 20:00, demonstrators in Chkhorotsku will continue their daily protests near City Hall, ensuring the movement for democracy and European integration remains strong across the country.
Friday, March 14
23:50 – Theater University Students Call for Rector’s Resignation Amid Ongoing Protest
Students from the Shota Rustaveli State University of Theater and Film participated in a live broadcast to air their grievances with the university administration. Despite rector Giorgi Shalutashvili‘s claim that the administration was open to dialogue and that the problems from earlier in the week had been resolved, the students called for his resignation. Shalutashvili had said that he had made a “principled decision” to change the harsh disciplinary measures imposed by the Ethics Commission, which had previously threatened to expel the students. Students, however, criticized the administration’s response, claiming that the willingness to engage in dialogue came too late.
During the broadcast, student representatives Nino Gogia and Temur Vacharadze reaffirmed their commitment to the protest, which also called for new parliamentary elections and the release of those detained during the demonstrations. Vacharadze pointed out that Shalutashvili initially failed to show solidarity with detained colleagues and did not oppose the government’s repressive actions, including illegal detentions and the halting of EU integration. He also noted that as the protests escalated within the university, students were denied basic necessities such as food and heating, with guards attributing the decision to the rector’s orders.
21:30 – Rustaveli Avenue Blocked
For the 107th consecutive day, protesters blocked Rustaveli Avenue, demanding new elections and the release of those arrested during the past three months of protests.
17:00 – European Commission’s Spokesperson Hipper Says GD Threatens Georgia’s European Path
Speaking to IPN, European Commission spokesperson for Foreign and Security Affairs Anitta Hipper has said that Georgia is immersed in a deep political crisis and the country witnesses the deterioration of human rights after the parliamentary elections of October 26. She stated that the current course of the GD government threatens Georgia’s European path. Hipper assured that the EU remains committed to monitor the situation closely and continues to stand by the Georgian people.
11:00 – Planned Protests Timeline
The fight for democracy and European integration continues as nationwide protests enter their 107th consecutive day, with demonstrators demanding the release of detained protesters and new elections. In Tbilisi, today’s demonstrations will begin at 14:30 with a court hearing for Anatoli Gigauri at the Tbilisi City Court. At 19:00, two separate protests will take place: demonstration near the Public Broadcaster’s office and the March “In Solidarity with the Prisoners of Conscience” from Public Broadcaster. A larger gathering near Parliament is scheduled for 20:00, followed by a public lecture by the protest auditorium at 21:00 by the Ilia and Akaki monument. Meanwhile, protests will continue across other cities. In Gori, demonstrators will assemble at 17:00 in front of the Municipality Council, demanding “Freedom for Political Prisoners” and new elections. At 18:00, rallies will be held in Akhaltsikhe by the Shota Rustaveli statue and in Zugdidi in front of the Regional Administration, while in Telavi, protests will continue at City Hall. In Kutaisi, at 19:00, citizens will gather in front of City Hall under the slogan “Yes to Europe, No to Russia!” At the same time, in Batumi, a protest titled “In Service to the Homeland” will take place in front of the Constitutional Court. Later in the evening, at 20:00, demonstrators in Chkhorotsku will continue their daily protests near City Hall, ensuring the movement for democracy and European integration remains strong across the country.
Thursday, March 13
23:30 – Shota Rustaveli Theater University Refrains from Revoking Status of Protesting Students
Shota Rustaveli State University for Theater and Film has decided not to revoke the student status of those participating in protests, a decision made on March 10. In a statement posted on Facebook, the university announced that “based on the statements of students, faculty, and staff, and in the best interests of the university, the rector decided not to apply the most extreme disciplinary measure against the students—termination of status.”
21:00 – Rustaveli Avenue Blocked
For the 106th consecutive day, hundreds of protesters took to Rustaveli Avenue, standing firm in their demands for a rerun of elections and the release of all detained individuals. The streets of Tbilisi once again echoed with chants of resistance, highlighting the persistence of a movement that refuses to back down.
19:00 – Batumi Court Hears Mzia Amaghlobeli’s Administrative Case, Ruling Expected on March 18
The Batumi City Court held a hearing on the administrative case of Mzia Amaghlobeli, the founder of Batumelebi/Netgazeti, who was detained during a January 11 protest in Batumi. Amaghlobeli, who attended the hearing remotely, was initially arrested for placing a sticker reading “Georgia Strikes” on the fence of the Adjara Police Department. During the hearing, Amaghlobeli dismissed the charges, stating that the case was fabricated and based on false testimonies. “The only truth in this case is that I did place the sticker, fully consciously,” she said, denying accusations of verbally insulting police officers. Amaghlobeli added that she was treated disrespectfully at the police station.
According to Batumelebi, the detention report was falsified. The document stated that Amaghlobeli was arrested not for placing the sticker but for allegedly verbally insulting police officers. While the report was signed by Gocha Vanadze, deputy to Irakli Dgebuadze, footage shows Amaghlobeli was actually detained by Grigol Beselia, head of the Adjara Police Department. Beselia, Dgebuadze, and Vanadze are sanctioned by Estonia.
18:00 – Professor Tsagareli Resigns from Theatre University Council Amid Student Status Revocations
The Shota Rustaveli Theatre and Film State University’s decision to suspend the student status of some protesters has sparked dissent within its Academic Council. Professor Tamar Tsagareli announced her resignation from the Council, criticizing the Ethics Commission for “sacrificing” students.
“It is extremely difficult for me to remain a member of a council that includes academic staff who ‘despise’ young people,” Tsagareli wrote on Facebook. While stepping down from the council, she vowed to continue teaching, telling students, “Together, we will prevail.”
11:00 – Nationwide Rallies on 106th Day of Protests
Protests across Georgia have entered their 106th day as demonstrators continue to rally against GD’s U-turn, demanding new elections and release of all detained protesters. Gatherings are planned in multiple cities, with Tbilisi remaining the movement’s epicenter. In the capital, the day’s events began at 16:00 with the court hearing of Russian activists Anastasia Zinovkina and Artem Gribuli at the Tbilisi City Court. At the same time, people will gather near the Embassy of Germany, demanding the freedom of detained Temur Katamadze. The protest outside the Public Broadcaster at 20:00 will be seen as usual. A public lecture hosted by the Protest Auditorium is scheduled for 21:00 at the Ilia and Akaki Monument, while a discussion titled “Levan Gotua: Literature of Freedom” by Dato Turashvili will take place at 21:30 in front of the Municipality Council.
Meanwhile, demonstrations are continuing across Georgia. At 17:00, protesters will gather in Gori to demand the release of “political prisoners,” and new elections. Other rallies are planned for Akhaltsikhe (18:00); Zugdidi (18:00); Telavi (19:00); Kutaisi (19:00 with the slogan “Yes to Europe, No to Russia!”), and Telavi (19:00). Protesters will gather near the Constitutional Court in Batumi at 19:00. “Protest Every Day,” with that slogan, people in Chkhorotskhu will hold a demonstration near the City Hall.
00:55 – Public Broadcaster Agrees to Air Live Discussion Amid Student Protests
Amid ongoing protests outside the Public Broadcaster, University of Theatre and Film Rector Giorgi Shalutashvili, representatives of the Broadcaster, and students met to address the situation. Following the meeting, the parties agreed to a live broadcast on Friday at 10 p.m., during which Shalutashvili and several students will present their positions on the unfolding events.
Wednesday, March 12
22:30 – Theatre and Film University Students Demand Air Near the Public Broadcaster
The rally is ongoing near the Pubic Broadcaster building. Students from the Theatre and Film University are demanding that the Public Broadcaster give them airtime.
Giorgi Shalutashvili, the rector of the Theatre and Film University, was invited to the broadcaster’s airtime. The students claim that Shalutashvili is “telling lies” through the channel, and are demanding that a student representative be invited to the airtime. “Airtime for students, solidarity for students,” – the protesters chant. Several students were suspended by the University earlier this week for protesting inside the university building.
21:45 – Protesters Block Rustaveli Avenue
For the 105th consecutive day, protesters blocked traffic on Rustaveli Avenue, Tbilisi’s one of the main thoroughfares. The demonstrators, who have maintained a consistent presence since late November, continue to demand new elections and the release of all illegally detained protesters.
17:50 – Eight Prisoners Remanded in Custody, Trial Set for March 24
Tbilisi City Court has remanded into custody eight individuals accused of group violence, moving the case to a substantive hearing scheduled for March 24 at 12:00. The defendants— Zviad Tsetskhladze, Vepkhia Kasradze, Vasil Kadzelashvili, Giorgi Gorgadze, Irakli Miminoshvili, Insaf Aliev, Tornike Goshadze, and Nikoloz Javakhishvili— face serious charges, with the first three accused of organizing and directing the violence, carrying potential sentences of six to nine years in prison, while the others face four to six years for alleged participation.
11:00 – Planned Protests Schedule
The fight for democracy and European integration continues as protests sweep across the country for the 105th consecutive day. Protesters demand the release of all detained demonstrators and news elections. In Tbilisi, demonstrations will begin at 11:00 with a court hearing for Archil Museliantsi at the Tbilisi City Court, followed at 13:00 by a hearing for eight prisoners of conscience at the same location. At 16:00, protesters will gather in front of the National Center for Education and Quality Development for a demonstration titled “We Will Not Give It Up” (authorization of Ilia State University). At 19:00, two separate protests will take place: the “March of Adjarians Against Authoritarianism” from Marjanishvili Metro Station and another protest near the Public Broadcaster’s office. A demonstration near Parliament is scheduled for 20:00, followed by a public lecture on education at 21:00 by the Ilia and Akaki monument. Meanwhile, protests will continue in other cities across the country. In Gori, demonstrators will assemble at 17:00 in front of the Municipality Council to demand “Freedom for Political Prisoners” and new elections, while another protest will take place in Akhmeta near City Hall. At 18:00, rallies will be held in Akhaltsikhe by the Shota Rustaveli statue and in Zugdidi in front of the Regional Administration, while in Telavi, protesters will continue their demonstration at City Hall. In Kutaisi, at 19:00, citizens will gather in front of City Hall under the slogan “Yes to Europe, No to Russia!” At the same time, in Batumi, a protest titled “In Service to the Homeland” will take place in front of the Constitutional Court. Later in the evening, at 20:00, demonstrators in Chkhorotsku will continue their daily protests near City Hall.
Tuesday, March 11
21:20 – Rustaveli Avenue Blocked Again
For the 104th consecutive day, the demonstrators have once again successfully blocked Rustaveli Avenue. Their demands remain unchanged: a re-run of the recent elections and the release of all those illegally detained.
20:30 – Protest near TSU
Students at Tbilisi State University are protesting near the TSU building, condemning the dismissal of two lecturers, allegedly for political reasons. The students have also announced the launch of an information campaign to raise awareness of the issue.
11:00 – Nationwide Rallies on 104th Day of Protests
Demonstrators will once again gather on the 104th day of pro-EU and pro-democracy protests across Georgia, demanding new elections and the release of all detained protesters. In Tbilisi, the day’s events will begin at 11:00 with a court hearing for Russian citizen Anton Chechin at Tbilisi City Court, who actively participated in the pro-EU protests before his detention. At 13:00, students and supporters will rally at Theater University on Rustaveli Avenue in solidarity with Theater University students. Later in the evening, as usual, at 19:00, protesters will gather outside the Public Broadcaster’s building, followed by a gathering near Parliament at 20:00. At 21:00, a public lecture titled “Systems and Us” will take place at the Rustaveli Avenue, near the Akaki and Ilia Monument.
In Gori, demonstrators will convene at 17:00 outside the Municipality Council, demanding the release of “political prisoners” and the scheduling of early elections. A separate demonstration is planned in Akhmeta, where protesters will gather at 17:00 near the City Hall. At 18:00, rallies will be held in Akhaltsikhe, by the Shota Rustaveli statue, under the slogan “No to the Russian Regime!,” and in Zugdidi, outside the Regional Administration, under the slogan “Till the Victory!” In Telavi and Kutaisi at 19:00, demonstrators will continue their protest in front of the City Halls. In Batumi, at the same time, a demonstration under the theme “In Service to the Homeland!” will take place outside the Constitutional Court. The evening will conclude with a 20:00 protest in Chkhorotsku, where demonstrators will maintain their daily presence outside the City Hall.
Monday, March 10
22:00 – Protesters Block Rustaveli Avenue
On the 103rd consecutive day of pro-EU protests, demonstrators have gathered on Rustaveli Avenue, near the Parliament. As of now, the traffic is blocked on the Avenue.
21:45 – Two Protesters Reportedly Detained on Rustaveli Avenue
Two people were reportedly detained on Rustaveli Avenue near the Marriott Hotel in Tbilisi. The information about the detentions was shared by Tea Gogrichiani in the Facebook protest group Daitove. The identities of those detained remain unclear at this time.
21:30 – Solidarity March for Suspended Theatre University Students Underway
A solidarity march in support of Shota Rustaveli Theater and Film University students, some of whose status was suspended by the administration, is underway in Tbilisi. The protest was initiated by Ilia State University students. The protesters first marched toward the Theatre University, where they expressed solidarity and support with their fellow students before proceeding toward Rustaveli Avenue. Citizens, gathered near the Public Broadcaster, also joined the demonstration.
20:00 – 11 Protesters, Including Actor Andro Chichinadze Remanded in Custody
Tbilisi City Court judge Irakli Shvangiradze ruled to extend pretrial detention for 11 individuals charged with alleged participation in group violence during pro-EU demonstrations. The defendants, whose cases have been consolidated into a single proceeding, include actor Andro Chichinadze and comedian Onise Tskhadadze, alongside Guram Mirtskhulava, Luka Jabua, Jano Archaia, Ruslan Sivakov, Revaz Kiknadze, Giorgi Terashvili, Valeri Tetrashvili, Sergei Kukharchuk, and Irakli Kerashvili.
The decision came from a semi-closed hearing, despite objections from defense attorneys who had requested an open proceeding. All defendants face charges under Article 225, Part 2 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which addresses participation in group violence. The next court hearing has been scheduled for March 25 at 11:00 a.m.
13:00 – Tbilisi City Court Remands Giorgi Mindadze in Custody
The Tbilisi City Court judge Nino Galustashvili has remanded in custody Giorgi Mindadze, a 21-year-old medical student accused of assaulting a police officer. Mindadze faces charges under Article 353 Prima, Part 1 of the Criminal Code, which criminalizes assaults on law enforcement officers. Prosecutors accuse him of throwing pyrotechnics at a police officer during a protest on November 29, allegedly causing an injury to the officer’s leg.
11:00 – Student Protester Suspended from Theater University
The administration of the University of Theater and Film has suspended the student status of those involved in the recent protests, citing “violations of the university’s code of ethics.”
10:00 – Planned Protests Timeline
The fight for democracy and European integration continue as protests sweep across the country for the 103rd consecutive day. Protesters demand the release of all detained protesters and new elections. In Tbilisi, demonstrations will begin at 12:00 with a court hearing for “eleven prisoners of conscience” at the Tbilisi City Court. Later, at 16:00, protesters will gather in front of German Embassy in solidarity with “flag bearer” Temur Katamadze. At 19:00 Protesters will gather on two seperate locations, near Iliauni building and the public broadcaster’s office. A protest near the parliament is planned to take place at 20:00. At 21:00, a public lecture on education will take place by the Ilia and Akaki monument. Meanwhile, other cities across the country will also see continued protests. In Gori, demonstrators will assemble at 17:00 in front of the Municipality Council to demand “freedom for political prisoners” and new elections. Another protest will take place in Akhmeta near the City Hall. At 18:00, rallies will be held in Akhaltsikhe, by the Shota Rustaveli statue, and in Zugdidi, in front of the Regional Administration, while in Telavi, protesters will continue their protest at the City Hall. In Kutaisi, at 19:00, citizens will gather in front of City Hall under the slogan “Yes to Europe, No to Russia!” At the same time, in Batumi, a protest “In Service to the Homeland” will take place in front of the Constitutional Court. Later in the evening, at 20:00, demonstrators in Chkhorotsku will continue their daily protests near City Hall.
Sunday, March 9
20:00 – SJC Calls on MIA and Theater University to Respect Students’ Right to Protest
The Social Justice Center (SJC) has called on the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) to immediately stop using “unconstitutional” measures against students of the Theater University, who have been fined 5,000 GEL [1802 USD] for their protest. SJC also urges the university administration to uphold students’ rights to freely express their dissent, protect them from unjust penalties, and ensure that protests can continue with prior written consent. Emphasizing that freedom of assembly and expression are fundamental constitutional rights in Georgia, the organization highlights that universities serve as essential spaces for such freedoms. SJC stresses that peaceful protests, particularly those held in non-disruptive areas like university lobbies, do not interfere with institutional functions and are constitutionally protected. Any restriction on students’ ability to gather and voice their concerns, the statement argues, is a direct violation of these rights.
15:00 – Students Fined GEL 5,000 for Protesting Inside Theater University
Police fined students GEL 5,000 for protesting inside the Theater and Film University, where protests have been going on for almost three months. According to the students, the university administration called the police after asking them to leave the premises for sanitary work. When the students demanded an alternative space, the administration offered them a small room, which they refused to enter. The police issued fines under a recently passed legislation that prohibits protests in closed spaces or buildings without the owner’s consent.
Saturday, March 8
21:00 – “Women Against Regime” Mark International Women’s Day
As Georgia entered the 101st day of non-stop protests, women gathered in three cities – Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Batumi – to mark International Women’s Day. In the capital, they marched from Republic Square to the Parliament building, carrying symbolic prison cells and demanding the release of prisoners, including jailed female journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli. The protesters again blocked Rustaveli Avenue. The march ended with a performance in which activists burned pieces of the cell installations they had carried throughout the demonstration.
16:00 – Activist Sandro Kinkladze Left Georgia “for Security Reasons”
Sandro Kinkladze, an 18-year-old activist, wrote on social media that he and his wife, Elene Khubulava, left Georgia “for security reasons.” Kinkladze said that he, his wife, and his mother were being followed by the government, which prompted his decision to leave. Kinkladze had actively participated in pro-EU protests. He was arrested on December 8, 2024, and sentenced to twelve days of administrative detention for disobeying police orders.
Friday, March 7
21:00 – Protesters Gather in Front of Parliament Marking 100th Day of Protests
Crowds gather on Tbilisi’s Rustaveli Avenue to mark the 100th day of protests in Georgia. The non-stop protests began on November 28, 2024, in response to GD’s announcement that it was suspending EU accession, and have continued despite police crackdowns and repression. The protesters are demanding new elections and the release of people they say have been unjustly imprisoned.
18:00 – Temur Katamadze Taken Back to Detention Center
Temur Katamadze, the “flag bearer” from Batumi, who ended his hunger strike after 48 days, was taken back from the Vivamed clinic to the detention center of the migration department today.
11:00 – Nationwide Protests Mark 100th Day
The protests have persevered a tough winter, holding their ground for 100 days. Demonstrations will once again sweep across Georgia to mark that day, with citizens rallying against GD’s U-turn, demanding new elections and releasing all detained protesters. In Tbilisi, the rally will begin at 18:00 with architects gathering in solidarity at the City Hall, followed by a student-led rally at TSU’s First Building. Simultaneously, demonstrators as usual, will protest outside the Public Broadcaster, calling for the release of all “prisoners of conscience.” At 20:00, the main demonstration will take place near Parliament under the slogan “Till the End!” followed by the public discussions and lectures late into the evening near Ilia and Akaki’s Monument. Meanwhile, protests will be held across the country. In Gori, citizens will gather at 17:00 near the Municipality Council to demand new elections and freedom for “regime’s prisoners.” In Akhmeta, demonstrators will rally at the City Hall. Rallies in Akhaltsikhe (Shota Rustaveli Statue), Zugdidi (Regional Administration), and Telavi (City Hall) will begin at 18:00. In Kutaisi protest will start at the City Hall from 18:00 with the slogan “100th Day of Protest,” while in Batumi, a demonstration titled “In Service to the Homeland” will be held at 19:00 in front of the Constitutional Court. In Chkhorotsku, the daily protests will start at 20:00.
Thursday, March 6
21:35 – Belgium Urges GD to Uphold Democratic Freedoms Amid Concerns Over Press Repression
The Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a statement urging the Georgian Dream government to uphold the fundamental rights of freedom of peaceful assembly and expression, emphasizing that democracy cannot flourish without these freedoms. “No press freedom, no democracy,” stresses the Belgian MFA. The statement makes specific reference to the trial of Mzia Amaghlobeli and highlights concerns about repressive measures against journalists and peaceful demonstrators. Belgium expressed its deep concern about such measures, stating that they are incompatible with Georgia’s European and international commitments.
21:30 – Judge Remands Eight Protesters in Custody
Tbilisi City Court Judge Davit Mgeliashvili remanded eight individuals in custody. The defendants – Zviad Tsetskhladze, Vepkhia Kasradze, Vasil Kadzelashvili, Giorgi Gorgadze, Irakli Miminoshvili, Insaf Aliev, Tornike Goshadze, and Nikoloz Javakhishvili – are being tried together, although the defense contends there is no evidence they even know each other. The individuals were arrested during pro-European protests in December last year and face charges under Article 225 of Georgia’s Criminal Code, which penalizes participation in group violence with prison sentences of four to six years.
21:00 – Rustaveli Avenue Blocked
Protesters have again blocked Rustaveli Avenue. Hundreds of protesters remain with the same demands – new elections and the release of all those illegally detained.
18:35 – Darius Vitkauskas Calls Journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli a ‘Symbol of Courage’
Lithuania’s ambassador to Georgia, Darius Vitkauskas, today attended the hearing of journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli at Batumi City Court and later visited the Batumelebi/Netgazeti office. In a statement on social media, Vitkauskas expressed his support, calling Amaghlobeli “a symbol of courage and devotion of all those unjustly detained.” The hearing, which concerns an administrative charge for displaying a sticker calling for a national strike on the night of January 12, has been postponed until March 13.
11:30 – One Arrested for Allegedly Attacking Founders of “Krab Coffee”
MIA confirmed to Civil.ge that one man has been arrested in connection with a verbal and physical altercation involving “KRAB Coffee” founders: Kristi Pirveli and Barbare Rokita. Both young women are prominently involved in the pro-EU protests, offering free refreshments to demonstrators on Rustaveli Avenue. The incident is being investigated under Article 126 of the Criminal Code, which pertains to violence.
Following the attack, one of the victims, Kristi Pirveli, shared an update on social media, stating that she has an internal tooth fracture and a bruised spleen. “Barbi has a broken nose and has been taken in for surgery,” she wrote. “We are not afraid of anything, we’re already home and waiting for the investigation,” Pirveli later wrote in another post on Facebook.
11:25 – Planned Protest Marches
The fight for democracy and European integration continue as protests sweep across the country for the 99th consecutive day. Protesters demand the release of all detained protesters and new elections. In Tbilisi, demonstrations will begin at 12:00 with a court hearing for “eight prisoners of conscience” at the Tbilisi City Court. Later in the evening, at 20:00, protesters will gather in front of the Supreme Court of Georgia, as well as near Parliament. At 21:00, a public lecture on fines and new laws will take place by the Ilia and Akaki monument. Meanwhile, other cities across the country will also see continued protests. In Gori, demonstrators will assemble at 17:00 in front of the Municipality Council to demand “freedom for political prisoners” and new elections. Another protest will take place in Akhmeta near the City Hall. At 18:00, rallies will be held in Akhaltsikhe, by the Shota Rustaveli statue, and in Zugdidi, in front of the Regional Administration, while in Telavi, protesters will continue their protest at the City Hall. In Kutaisi, at 19:00, citizens will gather in front of City Hall under the slogan “Yes to Europe, No to Russia!” At the same time, in Batumi, a protest “In Service to the Homeland” will take place in front of the Constitutional Court. Later in the evening, at 20:00, demonstrators in Chkhorotsku will continue their daily protests near City Hall.
Wednesday, March 5
23:30 – 11 Detained Protesters, Including Actor Andro Chichinadze Remanded in Custody
Tbilisi City Court judge Irakli Shvangiradze ruled to keep 11 individuals in pretrial detention on charges of participating in group violence during the pro-EU protests near Parliament. The case, which is consolidated into a single proceeding, involves actor Andro Chichinadze, comedian Onise Tskhadadze, and nine other individuals: Guram Mirtskhulava, Luka Jabua, Jano Archaia, Ruslan Sivakov, Revaz Kiknadze, Giorgi Terashvili, Valeri Tetrashvili, Sergei Kukharchuk, and Irakli Kerashvili. They have been charged under Article 225, Part 2 of the Criminal Code, which pertains to participation in group violence.
During the hearing, detained Revaz Kiknadze’s defense lawyer Guja Avsajanishvili requested the recusal of judge Irakli Shvangiradze, arguing that until the previous night, the case was expected to be heard by judge Nino Tarashvili. However, Judge Shvangiradze declined to step aside and proceeded with the hearing. Avsajanishvili also requested the recusal of Prosecutor Vazha Todua, who was sanctioned by Estonia on March 3. However, Judge also declined this request.
21:55 – Protest Continues on Rustaveli Avenue, Traffic Blocked
On its 98th consecutive day, Pro-EU and pro-democracy protests persist on Rustaveli Avenue. Protesters have again blocked the traffic.
15:00 – Tbilisi Court Judge Issues Verbal Warning to Gigi Gigiadze
Tbilisi City Court Judge Nino Enukidze issued a verbal warning to Gigi Gigiadze, senior researcher at the Economic Policy Research Centre and former Georgian ambassador to Denmark, after he was accused of obstructing traffic in a bus lane during protests on Chavchavadze Avenue on December 17.
13:00 – EU Takes Into Account Baltic States’ Call for Sanctions on GD Officials
The EU press office informed IPN that they are taking into account the Baltic states’ decision regarding sanctions on individuals actively involved in repressive measures in Georgia. Emphasizing its commitment to upholding democratic values and human rights, the EU reaffirmed its readiness to take further action, including the imposition of sanctions, if necessary.
12:05 – Temur Katamadze Ends Hunger Strike
Temur Katamadze, the Georgian flag bearer who had been on a hunger strike for 48 consecutive days in protest against the Ministry of Internal Affairs’ decision to deny his request for refugee or humanitarian status, has ended his strike.
12:00 – Anatoli Gigauri Remanded in Custody
Judge Jvebe Nachkebia of the Tbilisi City Court has remanded in custody Anatoli Gigauri, a member of the opposition force Unity-UNM. Gigauri was arrested on November 25 on charges of assaulting a police officer, a crime under Article 353 Prima of the Georgian Criminal Code, which carries a prison sentence of 4 to 7 years.
11:50 – Temur Katamadze Hospitalized
Temur Katamadze, the flag bearer who has been on a hunger strike for 48 days, has been taken to the hospital after his last medical check-up on February 15. According to a statement from the Georgian Young Lawyers Association (GYLA), Katamadze has already lost 20 kilograms.
11:00 – Timeline of Protests
The wave of pro-EU protests gripping Georgia shows no signs of fading as demonstrators take to the streets for the 98th consecutive day. The demands remain unchanged: the release of detained protesters, and new elections. In Tbilisi, protests are scheduled at 12:00 near the Tbilisi City Court, at 19:00 near the Public Broadcaster’s building and at 20:00 near Parliament. At 21:00, a public lecture titled “Georgian Polyphony and Protest” will take place near the Ilia and Akaki statue. In Gori, protesters will gather at 17:00 in front of the Municipality Council to demand “freedom for prisoners and new elections.” Protests will also take place at 18:00 in Akhaltsikhe (Shota Rustaveli statue), Zugdidi (Regional Administration), Telavi (City Hall), and Kutaisi (City Hall). In Batumi, a protest for the freedom of Mzia Amaghlobeli will be held at 13:00 near the Batumi City Court, followed by a demonstration at 19:00 in front of the Constitutional Court. Other protests include Chkhorotsku at 20:00 by the City Hall.
Tuesday, March 4
21:30 – Rustaveli Avenue Blocked
Protesters have again blocked Rustaveli Avenue. Hundreds of protesters remain with the same demands – new elections and the release of all those illegally detained.
16:00 – EaP CSF Calls on Georgian Authorities to Repeal Restrictive Laws, Urges EU to Sanction Georgian Authorities
The Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum (EaP CSF) Steering Committee issued a statement raising concerns over Georgia’s democratic backsliding. It highlighted that Georgian authorities rapidly adopted the legislative amendments that “restricted freedom of assembly and expression “and imposed harsh penalties, following “controversial” 26th October’s elections. These changes affected key laws, including those on assemblies and demonstrations, the Administrative Offenses Code, and the Criminal Code, the statement argues.
The EaP CSF calls on Georgian authorities to cease the crackdown on civil society and media, conduct new free and fair parliamentary elections, repeal laws that “unjustifiably restrict civil and political rights of Georgian people,” release individuals unjustly detained during protests, and align their actions with the Georgian people’s European integration aspirations. It also urges the EU and its member states to condemn “draconian legislation,” impose sanctions on Bidzina Ivanishvili and “key political figures responsible for Georgia’s democratic backsliding,” support Georgian civil society and media, engage directly with protesters, and maintain pressure on the GD party to uphold democratic principles.
13:00 – Musician and Activist Davit Gabunia Physically Assaulted
Musician and civil activist Davit (Tornado) Gabunia was reportedly assaulted by Misha Meskhi, a supporter of the ruling Georgian Dream party and the husband of singer Sopho Bedia. Meskhi later confirmed the attack in a Facebook post, while his associate, Beso Danelia, shared footage of the confrontation online.
In the video, the assailant can be heard grilling Gabunia over “Ole, Ola”, a protest song that has become emblematic of recent pro-EU demonstrations, asking whether he intended to perform it. Gabunia responds, “Why are you so worried?” before being struck and verbally abused.
12:00 – Comedian Misha Andguladze Physically Attacked in Hague
Comedian and actor Misha Andguladze was attacked near a restaurant in the Hague, Netherlands. A circulated video captures the confrontation, showing several individuals, reportedly Georgians, physically assaulting Andguladze just outside the venue. Known for his pro-European stance and support to the pro-EU rallies, Andguladze was in the Netherlands to perform the stand-up show.
11:00 – Timeline of Protest Marches
The wave of pro-EU protests gripping Georgia shows no signs of fading as demonstrators take to the streets for the 97th consecutive day. The demands remain unchanged: the release of detained protesters, and new elections. In Tbilisi, protests are scheduled at 19:00 near the Public Broadcaster’s building and at 20:00 near Parliament. At 21:00, a public lecture titled “From Hopelessness to Victory” will take place near the Ilia and Akaki statue. In Gori, protesters will gather at 17:00 in front of the Municipality Council to demand “freedom for prisoners and new elections.” Protests will also take place at 18:00 in Akhaltsikhe (Shota Rustaveli statue), Zugdidi (Regional Administration), Telavi (City Hall), and Kutaisi (City Hall). In Batumi, a protest for the freedom of Mzia Amaghlobeli will be held at 13:00 near the Batumi City Court, followed by a demonstration at 19:00 in front of the Constitutional Court. Other protests include Chkhorotsku at 20:00 by the City Hall, Akhmeta at 17:00 by the City Hall, and a public discussion in Rustavi at 18:30 at Zedgenidze Street 62, focusing on “How to Protect Ourselves from 5000 GEL Fines?”
Monday, March 3
22:30 – German Foreign Ministry: Mzia Amaghlobeli Must be Released Immediately
Noting that the founder of Batumelebi/Netgazeti Mzia Amaghlobeli “will appear in court tomorrow after over a month in detention,” the German Foreign Ministry said that she must be released immediately. “The Georgian Dream continues its campaign of intimidation against journalists, protesters & the opposition. We stand by those defending freedom,” the Ministry said.
20:15 – Mothers’ March Towards the Parliament building
On the 96th day of protest, which coincides with Mother’s Day in Georgia, the protesters are gathering for the March of Mothers, which is going to take off from the Philharmonic Hall towards the Parliament.
13:45 – Health of Detained Temur Katamadze Deteriorates Amid 47-Day Hunger Strike
The health condition of detained Temur Katamadze has significantly worsened as his hunger strike enters its 47th day without medical supervision. Katamadze, who faces potential deportation to Turkey, is refusing medical examinations since February 15. He feels weak, has difficulty moving, and has lost more than 20 kg, his lawyer Mariam Gabroshvili told reporters, emphasizing that it’s important for Katamadze to feel well and be able to attend the upcoming court proceedings regarding refugee and humanitarian status, and state his position at the hearing.
11:00 -Planned Protests
Pro-democracy and pro-EU protests continue across Georgia for the 96th consecutive day. In Tbilisi, demonstrations will start at 19:00 near the Public Broadcaster’s building, followed by a “Mothers’ March” from the State Concert Hall and a protest near Parliament. At 21:00, a public lecture on civil resistance and democratic movements will take place by the Akaki and Ilia statue on Rustaveli Avenue. In Gori, a protest will start at 17:00 near the Municipality Council, while marches will begin at 18:00 in Akhaltsikhe (Shota Rustaveli statue), Zugdidi (Regional Administration), and Telavi (City Hall). Rallies will also occur in Kutaisi (19:00, City Hall), Batumi (19:00, Constitutional Court), and Chkhorotsku (20:00, City Hall). [Local time]
Sunday, March 2
22:30 – 95th Day of the Protest
On the 95th day of the protest, the Rustaveli Avenue is closed again for traffic by the demonstrators.
March 1
16:00 – Opposition Politician Gvianidze Visits Temur Katamadze, Raises Alarm Over Deteriorating Health
Batumi City Council member from the opposition For Georgia party, Akaki Gvianidze, has expressed concern over the deteriorating health of Temur Katamadze, who is on the 45th day of a hunger strike. According to Gvianidze, Katamadze fears he will no longer be able to walk on his own in the coming days. “The situation is further worsened by the fact that the protest hunger strike is taking place without medical supervision,” Gvianidze wrote on social media, following visiting Katamadze at the detention center.
11:00 – Planned Protests
On the 94th day of pro-EU rallies, protests are scheduled across Georgia. In Tbilisi, demonstrations will take place at the Public Broadcaster (19:00) and Parliament (20:00). A rally will be in Gori at 17:00 near the Municipality Council, demanding freedom for “political prisoners and new elections.” Akhaltsikhe protesters will gather at the Shota Rustaveli statue at 18:00 under the slogan “No to Russian regime!” Simultaneously, protests will occur in Zugdidi (Regional Administration), Telavi (City Hall), and Kutaisi (City Hall). Batumi demonstrators will meet at the Constitutional Court at 19:00, while Chkhorotsku will hold a late-night protest by the City Hall at 20:00 with the slogan – “Protest Every Day.” [Local time]
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