Georgia: Protests expected in Tbilisi, other cities through June 29 /update 7

Event

Political opposition protests are expected to continue in Tbilisi through Saturday, June 29. According to the British diplomatic authorities, demonstrations are expected every evening in the capital Tbilisi, outside Parliament on Rustaveli Avenue. Thousands of people have been protesting daily in the capital since June 20. British authorities also warned that protests are possible in Kutaisi and Batumi.

Significant transportation and business disruptions are expected near protest sites and demonstrators may attempt to erect roadblocks. A heightened security presence is anticipated, and police officers will likely use force to disperse crowds. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out. 

Context

Around 10,000 opposition protesters rallied outside of parliament on the night of June 20, to denounce the participation of Russian MP Sergey Gavrilov at the General Inter-Parliamentary Assembly on Orthodoxy. Protests reportedly turned violent after images emerged of Gavrilov sitting in a seat typically reserved for Parliamentary Chairperson Irakli Kobakhidze. Police subsequently fired tear gas at protesters after several attempted to storm the parliament building. Demonstrations continued over the subsequent days outside the parliament and headquarters of the ruling Georgia Dream party, with protesters demanding the resignations of various top officials and early elections.

Advice

Individuals in Georgia are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.