Tbilisi's anti-government protests have now surpassed 400 consecutive days, making them one of the longest sustained demonstration campaigns in Georgian history. Police recently started enforcing "pavement obstruction" fines that can hit bystanders, including foreign nationals walking near Parliament after 19:00. This guide breaks down the zones, legal risks, and safety steps NGOs and expats need right now.
Current Situation (January 2026)
The protests began in late 2024 and continue to center on opposition to the Georgian Dream government. Here is the latest:
- Location: Rustaveli Avenue, directly in front of Parliament
- Daily Attendance: 800-2,000 core participants
- Weekend Marches: Thousands of participants, larger demonstrations
- Violence Level: Low - protests remain largely peaceful
- Legal Risk: Increased - new enforcement of administrative rules
New Legal Risks for Bystanders
⚠️ "Pavement Obstruction" Enforcement
Police are now strictly enforcing administrative rules regarding "pavement obstruction." This means protesters (and potentially bystanders) can be fined for blocking sidewalks - even when road traffic is not impeded. Foreigners should be particularly cautious.
What This Means for Foreigners
- Avoid the immediate vicinity of Parliament on Rustaveli Ave after 19:00
- Carry ID at all times when in the city center
- Do not join or appear to be participating in demonstrations
- If approached by police, comply with instructions and identify yourself as a foreign national
Areas to Avoid
High-Risk Zones (After 19:00)
- Rustaveli Avenue - from Freedom Square to the Parliament building
- Parliament Building - direct front area is the protest epicenter
- Side streets adjacent to Parliament - police staging areas
Generally Safe Areas
- Old Town (Abanotubani) - tourist area remains unaffected
- Vake and Saburtalo - residential districts, normal activity
- Mtatsminda - hillside district, away from protest routes
💡 For NGO Security Officers
Update your staff with current no-go zones. Consider adjusting evening movements in the city center. Brief incoming staff on the political situation and legal risks. Ensure all staff have printed ID and organizational affiliation letters. For a full framework, see our Travel Risk Management guide.
Political Context
The protests are driven by opposition to the Georgian Dream party's governance and concerns about democratic backsliding. Key issues include:
- Concerns about closer ties with Russia
- EU/Western integration policy disputes
- Press freedom and civil society restrictions
- The Georgian Orthodox Church's relationship with the ruling party
Recent developments include the Church's failed attempt to secure pardons for detained protesters, indicating a rare friction point between the Patriarchate and the government.
Broader Security Issues (January 2026)
Beyond the protests, there have been isolated security incidents in Tbilisi:
- Heroes Square Tunnel (Jan 3): Israeli national arrested for firing an acoustic weapon from a vehicle - subsequently deported
- Mziuri/Vake (Dec 31): Targeted murder of a businessman - appears to be organized crime related
While these appear isolated, they highlight the prevalence of weapons and the importance of situational awareness in traffic and nightlife areas.
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- Protests have entered a "new normal" phase - expect continued demonstrations
- Violence remains low, but legal risks for bystanders have increased
- Avoid Rustaveli Ave near Parliament after 19:00
- Carry ID at all times in the city center
- Monitor weekend schedules - larger marches may disrupt traffic
- Update staff briefings and Duty of Care documentation