We urge law enforcement officers not to obey unlawful orders and refrain from using violent methods against peaceful demonstrators.

On 28 November 2024, Georgian Dream announced the suspension of negotiations regarding EU accession. This was followed by the legitimate protests of citizens in response to the official declaration of a shift in Georgia’s foreign policy trajectory, guaranteed by the Constitution, leading to demonstrations in various cities across Georgia (Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Zugdidi, Gori, Batumi).

Although the protests have remained peaceful so far, law enforcement has used force and special measures against demonstrators. In Kutaisi, instances of disproportionate use of force by law enforcement against citizens have been reported. Videos have surfaced showing police officers dragging a protester and forcibly removing their clothes while the individual is on the ground. According to media reports, tear gas and pepper spray were allegedly used against peaceful protesters near the Parliament building on Chichinadze Street in Tbilisi [00:07; 00:12].

Additionally, physical force was reportedly used in the same area in Tbilisi [23:05; 23:14; 00:12]. Media sources suggest that several individuals have been detained.

The citizens’ protest is legitimate! 
 

Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA)

International Society for Fair Elections and Democracy (ISFED)

Transparency International Georgia

Civil Society Foundation

Academy for Georgia’s Future