Georgia: Protest planned in Tbilisi May 19

Event

On Monday, May 14, organizers of protests over the weekend announced that another protest will take place in Tbilisi on Saturday, May 19. However, the protesters added that the demonstration could be canceled if their demands are met. If maintained, the protest is likely to take place near the parliament building.

An increased security presence in the vicinity of the protests, along with associated transportation disruptions, are possible.

Context

Protests erupted on Saturday, May 12, following anti-drug raids at two nightclubs in Tbilsi overnight May 11-12. On Sunday, protests continued, calling for the Interior Minister's resignation; hundreds of far-right counter-protesters also demonstrated, leading to tensions between the two protesting groups.

Advice

Individuals in Tbilisi are advised to monitor developments to the situation and avoid all demonstrations; even peaceful protests can turn violent with little to no warning.