Having attended hundreds of anti-government protests in the Georgian capital, Tbilisi, Gvantsa Kalandadze has experienced first-hand the ongoing battle for democracy in her country. As a dedicated activist, she has tirelessly fought against the oppressive policies of the autocratic government of the Georgian Dream party. However, with each passing day, the struggle becomes more difficult as police brutality and intimidation have become common tactics used to silence dissenting voices.
Since the end of last year, daily protests have been a constant presence in Tbilisi, with thousands of citizens taking to the streets to demand change. The Georgian Dream party, which has been in power since 2012, promised a democratic and prosperous future for the country. Yet, as time went by, it became clear that their actions did not match their words.
The Georgian Dream party has been accused of suppressing freedom of speech, manipulating elections, and using violence against political opponents and protesters. Gvantsa and her fellow activists have been on the frontlines of this ongoing battle for democracy and have faced the brunt of the government’s heavy-handed tactics.
At each protest, Gvantsa and her fellow activists face a sea of police officers in riot gear, armed with batons and tear gas. Despite the peaceful nature of the protests, the police have often resorted to brutal force, leaving many injured and traumatized. Gvantsa herself has been a victim of this violence, sustaining injuries from rubber bullets and tear gas canisters. Yet, she remains undeterred in her fight for a better future for her country.
The use of excessive force by the police has sparked international outrage and condemnation, with human rights organizations calling for an end to the violence. However, the Georgian Dream party seems determined to hold onto their power at any cost, even if it means disregarding the basic human rights of its own citizens.
For Gvantsa and many others, the fight for democracy in Georgia is not just about political change. It is about creating a society where people are free to express their opinions and have their voices heard without fear of retribution. It is about building a country where the government works for the people, not against them.
Despite the challenges, Gvantsa and her fellow activists have continued to organize and participate in protests, refusing to be silenced by the government’s attempts to suppress their voices. They have also adopted creative and peaceful methods of protest, such as street performances and art installations, to bring attention to their cause.
Their determination and courage have not gone unnoticed, as more and more people join in the protests and show their support for the movement. The Georgian Dream party may have the power and resources, but the people of Georgia have a collective voice that cannot be silenced.
As Gvantsa Kalandadze and her fellow activists continue to fight for democracy in Georgia, their message is clear – they will not back down until their voices are heard and the government is held accountable for its actions. The ongoing protests in Tbilisi serve as a reminder that the fight for democracy is a never-ending one, and it is up to the people to demand the change they deserve.
