Declaration of the World March of Women On the Georgian Reality and Life After the Parliamentary Elections: The Streets of Tbilisi Stand for Democracy
The World March of Women stands in solidarity with the people of Georgia who have taken to the streets in defense of democracy, sovereignty, and their aspirations for European integration. The political crisis unfolding in Georgia, marked by escalating protests, repression, and public dissent, underscores the critical need for justice, accountability, and respect for human rights.
Since the parliamentary elections of October 26, 2024, widely criticized as fraudulent by opposition leaders, civil society organizations, and international observers, the Georgian people have expressed their profound discontent. The ruling Georgian Dream party’s victory and subsequent policies have alienated many citizens, prompting mass protests nationwide. These demonstrations intensified following Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s announcement that Georgia would not pursue EU accession negotiations until at least 2028, coupled with the rejection of EU grants. For a nation over 80% of the population supports EU integration, this decision represents a betrayal of the people’s unifying aspirations.
Adding to this outrage is the enactment of the so-called “Russian Law” earlier this year, which mirrors Kremlin-style crackdowns on civil society and media freedoms. The government’s increasing authoritarian tendencies have been met with forceful responses, including the use of gas, water cannons, illegal arrests, and police brutality. Journalists, political activists, and ordinary citizens have been subjected to violence, unlawful house raids, and arbitrary judicial decisions.
These actions violate the Constitution of Georgia and erode the democratic principles that the Georgian people have long fought to uphold.
Initially led by opposition parties, the protests have expanded to include a diverse spectrum of society. Public servants, diplomats, immigrants, and even former ruling Georgian Dream party supporters have joined the demonstrations. The pro-European President Salome Zourabichvili has stood with the people, vowing to remain in office until a legitimately elected parliament is formed, despite the ruling party’s attempts to install a new president.
The Georgian people’s demands are clear:
- The immediate release of political prisoners.
- Agreement on a date for new, free, and fair elections.
- The reopening of negotiations for EU accession. Protection of press freedom and the safety of journalists
This movement is not only about specific grievances but about Georgia’s future. The choice is stark: either regress into the sphere of Russian influence or move forward toward integration with Europe and the values of democracy, freedom, and equality.
The World March of Women calls on the international community to stand with the Georgian people in their struggle for justice and democracy. We demand that the Georgian government end its violent suppression of protests, respect the will of the people, and take immediate steps to address their legitimate demands.
The streets of Tbilisi echo with the cries of resistance and hope. We, the World March of Women, add our voices to this call for change. Women have always been at the forefront of struggles for justice and freedom, and we stand united with our Georgian sisters and all citizens fighting for a brighter future.
Together, we will constinue to resist.
In solidarity,
World March of Women