Episode 1, Part II - Academic and Political Freedom in Georgia with Beka Natsvlishvili

Geopolitical module at DCU receives international criticism

The module in geopolitical conflicts at DCU has faced backlash from the Ukrainian and Georgian embassies, as well as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with accusations of brainwashing and Russian propaganda. Despite allocating 13 hours to Georgian perspectives and only one hour to a Russian scholar, the embassies and members of parliament condemn the intervention as unprecedented. The module's creator argues that the criticism raises questions about the balance of perspectives and the ability to present multiple sides. This incident highlights the challenges faced in creating a space for diverse thoughts and perspectives, even when they do not align with our personal beliefs.

Challenges teaching social science in Georgia

An interview with Becca Natsrichrile sheds light on the difficulties of teaching social science and discussing social policies in Georgia. The restrictive environment labels any mention of social issues as communism, making it challenging to explore topics such as social capital, Marxism, and socialist ideas. The fear of being associated with Soviet Union-related ideologies has led to a narrow approach to teaching, excluding essential components of social science. This issue exists not only in Georgia but also in other post-Soviet countries, where rigid ideologies and propaganda have created barriers to open dialogue and critical thinking.

The impact of neoliberal policies on Georgia

Becca Natsrichrile reflects on the implementation of neoliberal policies in Georgia, describing it as an extreme experiment of neoliberalism. The country's adoption of radical neoliberal measures, such as low taxes and limited social safety nets, has resulted in a skewed economic and social framework. The absence of a minimum wage, alongside a refusal to introduce progressive taxation, further exacerbates socioeconomic disparities. These policies, influenced by the Washington consensus, have impacted the teaching of social and economic subjects, with the exclusion of crucial aspects like Marxist economics. Such policies have also left professors dependent on external funding and vulnerable to foreign influence, hindering the development of a coherent left or social political agenda.

Political culture and the label of communism in Georgia

A discussion about Becca Natsrichrile's experiences in parliament highlights the political culture surrounding the Soviet Union in Georgia. The use of labels like 'Trotskyist' for advocating social policies and criticizing the Washington consensus exemplifies a lack of understanding and a tendency to perceive any form of left-leaning ideology as threatening. Political debates often devolve into personal attacks, further polarizing perspectives. The connection between opposing Soviet Union-related ideas and opposition politics demonstrates the manipulation of the Soviet narrative for political gain. This anti-Soviet sentiment, intertwined with anti-Russian sentiments, hinders a more coherent left or social political platform and perpetuates a culture of fear and hostility.

Reimagining Soviet Georgia

Episode 1, Part II - Academic and Political Freedom in Georgia with Beka Natsvlishvili

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Geopolitical module at DCU receives international criticism

Challenges teaching social science in Georgia

The impact of neoliberal policies on Georgia

Political culture and the label of communism in Georgia

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