In recent days, the streets of Tbilisi have been burning - not only with fireworks, but also with a burning desire for justice and freedom. Tens of thousands of courageous people have come together to protest against the pro-Putin policies of the ruling Georgian Dream party, led by the oligarch bidzina ivanishvili. This party has systematically undermined emancipatory processes and sought proximity to authoritarian regimes such as that of putin and aliyev.
As much as today’s movement is pushed to a choice between Europe and Russia, two imperial powers contending for influence in the region, let's be clear, as in the words of local Georgian activists: This is the resistance against local authoritarianism and multipolar imperialisms in Georgia![1]
We should reiterate and note once more that the geopolitisation of the people's fight for freedom, better life, equal opportunities serves the interests of the local autocrats and local and regional elites. They are the ones who benefit from this geopolitised narrative, forcing us into a binary choice: either pro-european or pro-putin, either a "foreign agent" or a "patriot." But we refuse to play by their rules. Fighting for fundamental right to travel to the EU without a visa, to work, and to live with dignity—because our countries have been systematically robbed—is not about embracing so-called "Western values." Demanding gender equality, for basic condition of not being beaten or killed as a woman* is not a western value! Asking for acceptance as LGBTI+/queers in our societies is not a western value! Asking for mere existence as an ethnic minority is not a western value! It is a fight for the right to exist, plain and simple.
Shame on those who exploit these demands for their geopolitical agendas—whether they are the EU, Russia, or local autocrats. Time and time again, they have failed us, the people, for the sake of their own interests. Behind every lofty rhetoric, we see the same core value preached by all geopolitical actors: "My interests above all else." It's time to show middle finger to all of you.
And therefore, we acknowledge that these protests are not just a fight for Georgia - they are sending waves of hope and resistance throughout the region. The developments in Tbilisi are also affecting Armenia and Azerbaijan. In particular, the protests in Georgia are directed against ilham aliyev in Azerbaijan, whose regime is closely intertwined with pro-putin politics and their influence in the region. Any weakening of pro-Russian and authoritarian structures in Georgia has the potential to undermine the power of aliyev and other autocrats. It is a sign that people are refusing to bow to the influence and oppression of these regimes.
We see how many of the protesters are brutally beaten by cops, how many are lying in hospitals with blood-soaked bodies, and how many are being imprisoned for standing up for their rights. Your steadfastness and courage are unbroken. You stand firm, despite the brutal attacks by the state, the bloody street battles and the enormous danger you risk with every moment. We see you!
Today, we stand with the brave people on the streets of Tbilisi and across Georgia who are rising up against oppression, injustice and the growing authority of an oligarchic system. With fireworks and united voices, they resist tear gas, police violence and state repression - and show the world that freedom and dignity are stronger than any power of fear.
These protests are more than a demonstration against corruption and a pro-putin regime. They are a outcry for self-determination, for justice and for a future free from reactionaries and tyranny. Especially at a time when critical voices are being trampled on, when people are being persecuted, beaten up and intimidated, it is crucial that we say loud and clear: you are not alone!
What is happening in Georgia is part of a global struggle - against the rule of billionaires, against authoritarian regimes and against the attempt to stifle voices of emancipatory freedom and hope. Your flames, your barricades and your unwavering steadfastness are enflaming not only the streets of Tbilisi, but also the hearts of all those fighting for more just societies around the world.
We see your bravery.
We hear your voices.
And we stand with you - not just in thought, but in solidarity that transcends borders.
Solidarity is our strength, hope our common drive, and freedom the goal that unites us. You are not alone!
Σχόλια