Georgia's Turmoil: Protests and Geopolitics

This chapter examines the intense protests in Georgia against the government's suspension of EU membership talks, fueled by allegations of election fraud and a new law targeting foreign-funded civil society groups. It contextualizes the unrest within the broader landscape of fragile democracies in East Asia and explores the protesters' demands for new elections and closer ties with Europe, while highlighting the harsh responses from law enforcement. The chapter also delves into the geopolitical implications of these events, drawing parallels with historical uprisings and the potential shift towards authoritarianism amid rising tensions with Russia.