Georgia, a small country strategically located near Russia’s borders, is facing an unprecedented crisis. What was once hailed as a poster child for post-Soviet democracy has now become a battleground for authoritarianism.
The government, led by the Georgian Dream party, has taken drastic measures to suppress opposition and maintain its grip on power. The opposition has been severely weakened, with many leaders either in jail or forced into exile. Protesters have been violently arrested and tortured, leading to widespread concern about the erosion of democratic institutions.
The US is increasingly worried about Georgia’s alignment with Russia, China, and Iran, which is further eroding its democracy. In response, lawmakers are pushing for passage of the Megobari Act, aimed at bolstering democratic practices, human rights, and the rule of law in Georgia.
However, many Georgians remain divided over how to resist the government’s authoritarian tendencies. Some opposition leaders are advocating for participation in municipal elections, while others urge a boycott, fearing it may send a confusing signal to international supporters.
The situation is dire, with one former prime minister describing the current trajectory as “Georgia’s slide into authoritarianism.” Despite this, many Georgians still harbor strong hopes for integration with Western institutions, such as the European Union and NATO. The Megobari Act offers a glimmer of hope, but it remains to be seen whether international pressure alone can reverse Georgia’s downward spiral.
As tensions continue to escalate, one thing is clear: Georgia’s future hangs in the balance, and the world is watching with bated breath.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/07/16/europe/georgia-protests-russia-china-iran-influence-intl-cmd