GEORGIA: Russian compensation refusal & more – 8th Aug 2024

Gamarjobat from Gracia! This is the Rorshok Georgia Update from the 8th of August twenty twenty-four. A quick summary of what's going down in Georgia.

On Thursday the 8th, there was a big talk about Russia refusing to pay compensation for the two-thousand-eight war victims. Even though the European Court of Human Rights said Russia must pay, Russia ignored it. Over 20,000 of the people who lost their homes are still struggling, with many living in temporary shelters. The Georgian government and human rights groups are looking for other ways to help them, like setting up international funds or getting more support from countries. Thanks to our listener form South Carolina for sharing this story with us!

Moving on, on Thursday the 1st, the US sanctioned Georgian officials due to the "Russian Law," which mandates NGOs receiving over 20% of their funding from abroad to register as foreign agents. This law mirrors a similar Russian regulation from twenty twelve. The US State Department also imposed travel bans on some members of the Georgian Dream or Otsneba party, leading to widespread discussions about Georgia's political alignment and its closeness to Russia. These sanctions have heightened tensions between the US and Georgia.

However, on Tuesday the 6th, US officials said they're ready to restore relations with Georgia if the Georgian government returns to its original democratic course. The US emphasized the need for Georgia to uphold its commitments to democracy and human rights to promote stronger bilateral relations.

On Tuesday the 6th, the Public Defender of Georgia visited villages near the Administrative Boundary Line (ABL) to see how people lived. These villages are close to Russian-controlled areas and face many problems, including frequent security threats. Residents talked about issues like not having enough access to healthcare and schools, due to the proximity to the conflict zone, and living with the constant fear of being detained by Russian forces.

The Public Defender stressed the need for the Georgian government to provide more support and for the international community to pay attention to these human rights issues.

Back on the issue of the August two-thousand-eight war, on Thursday the 8th, Shalva Papuashvili, a parliament speaker, gave a speech at Mukhatgverdi Brothers’ Cemetery to honor its victims. He talked about how fragile peace is and how important it is for leaders to maintain it. The war killed many soldiers and civilians and left thousands homeless, causing long-term trauma and displacement. Papuashvili said we need to remember these sacrifices and work together to keep peace and stability in Georgia. He also called for greater unity and resilience among the Georgian people.

On Thursday the 8th, Irakli Garibashvili, the prime minister of Georgia, called for a full investigation into crimes committed by Mikheil Saakashvili and the United National Movement (UNM) during the two-thousand-eight war. He pointed out specific incidents where it was alleged that war crimes and abuses had occurred, including actions that had severe consequences for many Georgians. Garibashvili emphasized that justice must be served, even if the legal process is complicated and politically charged. This call for investigation comes amid ongoing political tensions in Georgia, with debates about accountability and transparency. Human rights groups and many citizens support the investigation.

Meanwhile, on the same day, Otsneba introduced a draft law aimed at restricting LGBTQ+ rights. The proposed legislation seeks to ban public events promoting LGBTQ+ values and complicate adoption processes for same-sex couples, claiming to protect traditional family values. This move has sparked widespread protests and criticism from human rights groups both domestically and internationally, who argue that the bill represents a significant setback for human rights in Georgia.

In a significant infrastructure update, on Monday the 5th, plans for rehabilitating the road connecting Lentekhi and Mestia were announced. It’s expected it’ll be completed by twenty twenty-four. This project aims to improve access and connectivity between these regions.

Moving on to tech news, on Wednesday the 7th, a new tech hub is set to open in Kutaisi. The tech hub aims to foster innovation and support startups and tech companies. It will provide state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including co-working spaces, mentorship programs, and access to funding opportunities.

On Monday the 5th, Georgian judoka Lasha Bekauri made history by becoming a two-time Olympic champion at the Paris twenty twenty-four Olympics. Bekauri, who competed in the men's 90 kg category, faced a dramatic final match against Japan's Shoichiro Mukai. Bekauri's victory was celebrated nationwide, with fans cheering on the streets.

On the cultural front, on Thursday the 1st, the Zurab Tsereteli Museum of Modern Art in Tbilisi opened an exhibition titled "New Faith," featuring contemporary works exploring themes of belief and spirituality. The exhibition includes pieces from various artists, each offering unique interpretations of faith and its role in modern society. The museum's director emphasized the importance of such exhibitions in fostering dialogue and understanding through art.

On Monday the 5th, Mariam Kvrivishvili announced the development of a new resort in Racha to boost tourism and economic growth in the region. The resort will feature luxury accommodations, recreational facilities, and cultural attractions, designed to attract both domestic and international visitors.

Switching to tourism news, on Thursday the 1st, Georgia was nominated as Europe's most desirable tourist destination at the Wanderlust Travel Awards.

In the political arena, on Monday the 5th, President Salome Zurabishvili reaffirmed her commitment to democratic values, stating that the Otsneba will not be able to falsify the upcoming October elections. Zurabishvili's remarks come amid ongoing concerns about Georgia's electoral integrity and political stability. Her statement has been met with support from pro-democracy groups and international observers, who stress the need for credible elections.

On the same day, civil activist Zuka Berdzenishvili was attacked outside his home by three unknown assailants. Berdzenishvili, known for his outspoken criticism of the government, suffered head and facial injuries. The attackers struck him from behind while he was leaving his house, raising concerns about the safety of activists in Georgia. Berdzenishvili suspects the attack may be linked to recent accusations by Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili, who labeled him and other activists as engaging in "politically motivated terror." Human rights groups have called for a thorough investigation into the attack to ensure justice and protect activists.

In another political development, on Tuesday the 6th, a new political coalition named Cvilebistvis (Coalition for Change) was announced, including leaders like Nika Melia, Nika Gvaramia, and members from Girchi and Droa. This coalition aims to challenge the current government and push for democratic reforms in the upcoming elections. The formation of this coalition represents a significant shift in the political landscape, with key opposition figures uniting to present a strong front against the ruling party. The coalition's goals include ensuring fair elections, promoting transparency, and addressing key social and economic issues.

Finally, on Monday the 5th, Speaker Shalva Papuashvili commented on the use of financial cooperation mechanisms as a tool for international pressure, stating that such practices contradict international ethics. His remarks were in response to recent criticisms and sanctions imposed on Georgian officials. Papuashvili underlined the importance of respecting national sovereignty and engaging in fair and constructive dialogue.

Aaand that’s it for this week! Thank you for joining us!

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Nakhvamdis!