Georgia: Activists to hold rally in Tbilisi, April 9

Event

Activists and opposition parties plan to gather on Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi on April 9. The United National Movement (UNM) opposition party called for the demonstration in support of pro-EU reforms. The UNM also demands the release of detained activist Lazare Grigoriadis and former President Mikheil Saakashvili. The date April 9 marks the anniversary of the violent repression of protesters in Tbilisi in 1989; therefore, additional demonstrations are possible across the country.

A heightened police presence is likely in central Tbilisi during the protest. Crowds and associated security measures, including possible road closures and movement restrictions, may prompt localized transport disruptions. Isolated clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out.

Context

Opposition parties led a series of protests in Tbilisi, March 7-9 during unrest over the proposed Foreign Influence Transparency Act. The bill would have required organizations that receive more than 20 percent from overseas to register as foreign agents. It was subsequently dropped by Parliament on March 10, however, the UMN is still calling for the government to accelerate pro-EU reforms.

Lazare Grigoriadis was arrested in connection with a number of incidents during the protests in early March.

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 area.