Thousands of people gather in Tbilisi as Georgia marks Independence Day, holding demonstrations calling for a European future. Protesters say the government has been moving away from democratic standards and urge authorities to pursue closer integration with the European Union. Speakers and banners criticize the ruling Georgian Dream party, with demonstrators alleging that EU accession has stalled. They also accuse the government of eroding civil liberties and describe the current direction of the country as increasingly aligned with Russia.
The rallies take place amid broader concerns about democratic backsliding in Georgia. Demonstrators present their support for European integration as an alternative to policies they argue are undermining democratic institutions and freedoms. The events occur on Georgia’s Independence Day and bring together large crowds in the capital to press their demands for a path they say is compatible with Europe.
Both reports characterize the protest as large-scale, pro-EU, and focused on criticism of the ruling party and the country’s political trajectory.
