Georgia: Opposition party supporters continue protests in Tbilisi, through mid-December

Event

Members and supporters of the United National Movement (UMN) party continue to rally in Tbilisi, through mid-December. Protestors are demonstrating in support of the ex-president Mikheil Saakashvili who is in jail and suffering from alleged "poisoning". Further protests are likely in coming days, including a possible protest Dec. 9 at 13:00, near the City Court. Activists may also gather outside the headquarters of the ruling Georgian Dream party, and at other government and national sites. Several thousand activists demonstrated on Dec. 3 and future events are likely to attract similar numbers.

Additional police will almost certainly deploy to monitor each action. Large numbers of people and associated security measures, including possible road closures and movement restrictions, will likely prompt localized transport disruptions. The events are likely to pass peacefully, though isolated clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Check for disruptions and allow extra time for travel in the affected areas.