13 Dec 2019 | 03:31 PM UTC
Georgia: Political rally scheduled in Tbilisi December 14
Georgia Dream party schedules demonstration in Tbilisi on December 14; heightened security measures and transportation disruptions likely
Event
The Youth Organization of Georgia Dream ruling party has called for a demonstration in Tbilisi on Saturday, December 14, to celebrate Georgia's presidency of the Council of Europe. Participants are expected to gather at 16:00 (local time) at Freedom Square.
A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are likely. Clashes against counter-protesters and police cannot be ruled out.
Context
On 27 November, Georgia officially took over the six-month chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe (CoE) from France. The Presidency of the Committee of Ministers is held for a six-month term in turn by the representatives of the European members in English alphabetical order. The mandate is transferred to a new President in mid-May and mid-November.
Georgia has selected four priorities for its Presidency: Human Rights and Environmental Protection, Civil Participation in Decision-Making, Child Friendly Justice - Converging Experience on Restorative Justice in Europe; and Strengthening Democracy through Education, Culture and Youth Engagement.
Advice
Individuals in Tbilisi 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.
