Georgian authorities have frozen the bank accounts of several public funds known for supporting activists, fueling outrage and intensifying ongoing anti-government protests.
Crackdown Targets Prominent Aid Organizations
The move, first revealed by journalist and public figure Nanuka Zhorzholiani, has hit major organizations providing financial relief to protesters. Among them is Nanuka’s Fund, which Zhorzholiani herself manages. The fund has been instrumental in assisting activists who faced fines or lost their jobs due to their involvement in demonstrations.
Joining the list of affected groups are Prosperity Georgia, founded by former Prime Minister Nika Gilauri, and Human Rights House Tbilisi, a key player in legal aid and advocacy for civil liberties. Both organizations confirmed their accounts were blocked shortly after Zhorzholiani’s announcement.
Officials have yet to provide a detailed explanation for the freeze, leaving many to speculate on whether it’s a politically motivated effort to weaken the protest movement.
Public Backlash Intensifies
The freezing of these accounts has sparked widespread backlash, drawing condemnation from both local and international observers. Many Georgians see this as an attempt to silence dissent and cripple grassroots financial support for activists.
Protesters have taken to the streets with renewed vigor, chanting slogans against the ruling Georgian Dream party and accusing the government of authoritarian tactics. The issue has also gained traction on social media, where the hashtag #UnfreezeOurFunds is rapidly gaining momentum.
Legal experts argue that freezing non-profit accounts without court orders raises serious questions about the legality of the action. Some human rights advocates warn this could set a dangerous precedent for civil society in Georgia.
Political Repercussions Loom
With the opposition seizing on the controversy, tensions are mounting in the political landscape. Several opposition leaders have condemned the government’s actions, calling for an immediate reversal of the account freezes.
“This is a blatant attempt to starve the protest movement of resources,” said opposition MP Tina Bokuchava. “The government is trying to suffocate civil society by any means necessary.”
Meanwhile, the ruling party maintains that the financial crackdowns are part of an effort to prevent “foreign interference” and ensure public safety. However, critics argue this narrative is an excuse to stifle opposition.
What Happens Next?
While protests show no signs of slowing, legal challenges are already emerging. Lawyers representing the affected organizations are preparing to contest the freezes in court, demanding transparency and a swift unblocking of the funds.
International bodies like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch are closely monitoring the situation, with some calling on Georgia’s Western allies to intervene diplomatically.
The outcome remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the freezing of these public funds has only intensified the protests — and the fight for civil liberties in Georgia shows no signs of ending.
