President Salome Zurabishvili Meets Protesters as Tbilisi Demonstrations Continue
The “Women’s March” made its way from the Philharmonic to the Orbeliani Palace on December 25, 2024, where demonstrators were met by Georgia’s President, Salome Zurabishvili. As the protesters chanted “Salome, Salome!” in a show of solidarity, the president came out to address the crowd, praising the role of women in the nation’s future.
Zurabishvili called women the “strongest” in Georgia, highlighting their central role in shaping the country’s present and future. “Women represent great hope for the present day of this country, for the future, and for a free Georgia,” she said, speaking to a group that had gathered outside the palace.
This protest marks the 27th consecutive day of demonstrations in Tbilisi. The march is part of a larger wave of protests ignited by Georgia’s recent political developments.
Continued Protests in Tbilisi Sparked by EU Negotiation Delay
The protests, which have been taking place daily across various locations in Tbilisi, are a direct response to a statement made by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze. On November 28, 2024, Kobakhidze announced that Georgia would delay opening negotiations for EU membership until 2028. This decision has sparked widespread discontent, especially among those who believe that EU integration is crucial for Georgia’s future and democratic growth.
The protests have been marked by significant participation, with citizens gathering from the morning and intensifying as evening falls. From 8:00 p.m., protesters converge near the Parliament building to voice their concerns about the government’s stance on EU membership and to demand action for the country’s future.
Women’s March Takes Center Stage
While protests have largely been a male-dominated affair in many countries, the “Women’s March” in Tbilisi is a powerful example of how women in Georgia are increasingly stepping into the political spotlight. The march’s organizers have emphasized the significance of women’s participation in the protests, not only as supporters but as leaders in the movement for political change.
Salome Zurabishvili’s address to the crowd outside the Orbeliani Palace reflects this shift in public perception. Her comments on the strength and hope embodied by Georgian women align with the growing recognition of women as a driving force in the country’s political landscape.
The Significance of the Protest
This ongoing protest is not just about one issue; it represents a broader demand for democratic reform and alignment with Western Europe. For many, the delay in EU negotiations is seen as a step backward in Georgia’s long-standing aspirations to join the European Union. The protests have become a symbol of resistance against political decisions that many citizens feel are holding the country back.
The march has garnered attention not only for its peaceful nature but also for the messages of unity and perseverance being expressed by protesters. As the demonstrations continue to gain momentum, it is clear that the people of Georgia, especially its women, are determined to have their voices heard.
