Controversial Legislation and Education Reforms Stir Debate Across Georgia
Today, February 02, 2026, Georgia was largely dominated by intense debate surrounding proposed legislative changes and significant reforms in the education sector. The ruling party, Georgian Dream, pushed forward with amendments to the "Law on Grants" and other legislation, drawing sharp criticism both domestically and internationally. Concerns were raised by organizations such as Amnesty International and the Association of Georgian Law Firms (SIFA), who warned that the changes could criminalize dissenting opinions and restrict the legitimate activities of civil society organizations, echoing previous controversial measures. Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili defended the initiatives as essential for "transparency" and a response to geopolitical realities, while a proposal to stiffen penalties for entrepreneurs engaged in political activity to include criminal liability after initial fines sparked further outrage.
Parallel to these legislative discussions, proposed reforms in higher education, particularly the planned merger of Tbilisi State University (TSU) and Georgian Technical University (GTU), generated widespread opposition from the academic community. Professors and former officials, including Khatia Dekanoidze of the "United National Movement," characterized the reforms as a "political whim" designed to control the education system and effectively abolish respected institutions. The rector of GTU, David Gurgenidze, stated that "no one would be twisted's arm" after a meeting with the Minister of Education's deputy, suggesting ongoing dialogue, while TSU Rector Jaba Samushia emphasized the need for continued academic dialogue.
Economically, the day brought a mix of positive and challenging news. Georgia's agricultural exports reportedly exceeded $1.8 billion in 2025, a new record, signaling growth in the sector. The national budget deficit reached a historic minimum of 1.4% of GDP in 2025, according to the Ministry of Finance. The US dollar officially stood at 2.6902 GEL. Fuel prices for the government decreased by up to 25 tetri, though general cigarette prices increased. A significant labor dispute continued at the Rustavi Azot plant, where employees entered their sixth day of striking for higher wages, rejecting a 100 GEL increase as insufficient. Additionally, Russian oil supplies to Georgia surged 16-fold in 2025, reaching $95.8 million.
In international relations, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze began his fourth visit to the United Arab Emirates in 13 months, participating in the World Government Summit. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed readiness for peace talks in Abu Dhabi, where US special representative Steve Whitkoff is also expected to attend. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reaffirmed EU support for Ukraine and announced a 20th package of sanctions against Russia. Meanwhile, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev made provocative statements about the 2008 August War, asserting Russia made the right decision. On a lighter note, Georgian athletes garnered recognition: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was named the best male athlete of 2025 by Georgian sports journalists, and several Georgian footballers, including Saba Goglichidze and Giorgi Kvilitaia, finalized transfers to European clubs, notably Watford (Championship) and Metz (Ligue 1) respectively. Basketball player Sandro Mamukelashvili also delivered a strong performance for the Toronto Raptors in the NBA.