The activists have clashed with police outside the country’s parliament building
Pro-EU protesters in Georgia, Tbilisi on November 29, 2024. © Davit Kachkachishvili / Anadolu / Getty Images Pro-EU protests continued for a third night on Sunday in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, where activists clashed with riot police outside the former Soviet country’s parliament building. The demonstrations are backed by a coalition of opposition parties, as well as Georgia’s pro-EU president, Salome Zourabichvili, who labelled the current government “illegitimate.” She previously claimed that the October parliamentary election was rigged in favor of the ruling Georgian Dream party. The protesters are outraged by the government’s decision to freeze the negotiations on joining the EU until 2028. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakzhidze said Georgia should ultimately become a member state, but do so on fair terms. He accused the EU of using the accession talks to “blackmail” Georgia and meddle in its politics. 30 November 2024 21:44 GMT A group of rioters showed up armed with sticks and wearing helmets. They were launching fireworks at the officers guarding the back side of the parliament. Police using water cannons near the back side of the parliament building. The situation in front is more peaceful. 📹 Gigi Kobakhidze/Civil.ge pic.twitter.com/Lfx78IrOIr — Civil.ge (@CivilGe) November 30, 2024 Although the crowd was initially peaceful, some protesters began throwing objects and launching fireworks at the officers, who responding with a water cannon. Like the day before, a large crowd descended on Rustaveli Avenue, where the parliament building is located. They were met with police in full riot gear, who are blocking the entrances to the parliament. The protesters are calling for the resignation of the government and a new election. Many are carrying Georgian and EU flags. More
