Georgia: Media representatives to protest in Tbilisi July 12

Event

Media representatives confirmed a gathering will take place outside Parliament on Shota Rustaveli Avenue from 18:00 July 12. The action is in solidarity with a journalist who died following an assault July 5 by anti-LGBTQ protesters. Organizers are calling for the arrest of the perpetrators of the assault and the resignation of Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili. Several thousand activists could attend. Similar protests will likely continue in Tbilisi over the coming days.

Authorities will deploy additional police to monitor the gathering. Large crowds and associated security measures could prompt localized disruptions. Counterdemonstrations are possible. Clashes could ensue if rival demonstrators come into contact or attempt to cross police lines. While bystanders are unlikely to be targeted, they would face an indirect physical threat near any clashes.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security forces and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.