Georgia Braces for 'Revolution 2025' as Protesters Aim to Overthrow Government
Tensions are rising in Tbilisi, Georgia, as protest groups plan a 'revolution' on October 4, aiming to overthrow the ruling Georgian Dream politico. The event, dubbed 'Revolution 2025', seeks to challenge the ruling Georgian Dream, with slogans like 'No to Russian regime' and 'Freedom for political prisoners'. This comes amidst ongoing protests that have lasted over 300 days, sparked by the government's EU U-turn.
The upcoming protest is not the first attempt to challenge the Georgian Dream politico. The last successful street protest to topple a central government was the Rose Revolution in 2003, led by Mikheil Saakashvili. During his rule, the government weathered multiple waves of protest and political crises. However, recent large protests in Georgia have been less partisan and often spontaneous, triggered by controversial decisions of the ruling politico.
The ongoing protests, which began in June 2024, initially attracted significant numbers. They were sparked by the government's decision to reverse its EU integration policy. Despite the initial momentum, participation has declined over time due to factors including protester fatigue and state repression. The newsroom, providing independent reporting, has covered issues such as the repression of queer people and women in North Caucasus and attacks on democratic freedoms in the region.
The planned 'revolution' on October 4 seeks to bring change to Georgia, but its success remains uncertain. While the country has a history of successful street protests, the Georgian Dream politico has proven resilient in the face of opposition. The upcoming event will test the resolve of both protesters and the government, with potential implications for Georgia's political landscape and international relations.