01 Mar 2021 | 05:47 PM UTC
Georgia: Activists to protest in Tbilisi from March 2 following detention of opposition leader.
Opposition groups plan demonstrations in Tbilisi, Georgia, March 2-13; localized disruptions likely; clashes possible.
Event
Activists affiliated with the United National Movement (UNM) and other opposition groups are planning protests in central Tbilisi from March 2 to denounce the detention of UNM leader, Nika Melia. Protesters will gather at the following locations on the indicated dates:
March 2: At the Parliament building
March 5: At the Chancellery building
March 9: At the Ministry of Internal Affairs
March 11: At the Tbilisi City Court
March 13: At the Parliament building
Opposition demonstrations have increased since Melia’s Feb. 23 detention and participation at related events will likely be high. Additional police will almost certainly deploy around the protest venues, probably prompting localized transport disruptions, particularly near the Parliament building on Rustaveli Avenue. Clashes between protesters and security forces are possible. Current COVID-19 measures in Georgia place strict restrictions on public gatherings; police could attempt to shut down any protest that is deemed to be breaching these restrictions.
Further related demonstrations in city squares and outside government facilities, including the Parliament Building, could be announced at short notice in the coming days.
Advice
Avoid all protests as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security forces and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Exercise caution and allow additional time for travel on Rustaveli Avenue and near announced protest venues in the coming days.
