Political Tensions Mount Amidst New Legislation; Economic Growth Continues in Georgia
October 14, 2025
Today, October 14, 2025, Georgia's political landscape remained a focal point, marked by strong criticism against the ruling Georgian Dream party's legislative agenda. Civil society organizations and opposition figures, including Tina Bokuchava and President Salome Zurabishvili, voiced concerns over proposed amendments to administrative and criminal codes, which are seen as aiming to restrict freedom of assembly and expression. These changes would, for instance, impose up to 15 days of administrative detention for individuals covering their faces or blocking roads during protests. Reports also indicated the government's intention to potentially ban several opposition parties, such as the United National Movement and Lelo, prompting President Zurabishvili to state that "terror in Georgia is reaching new heights" and accuse Bidzina Ivanishvili of employing "Russian methods and instructions."
In judicial news, President Mikheil Kavelashvili pardoned 70 individuals in connection with the Svetitskhovloba religious holiday. Concurrently, law enforcement conducted notable actions, including the arrest of academic Giorgi Chakhunashvili from his residence and the initiation of a sabotage investigation by the State Security Service (SSS) following a temporary outage at Imedi TV. Upcoming legislation will also prohibit individuals convicted of financial crimes from leaving the country until they have fully compensated for damages.
Economically, Georgia showcased a mixed picture of robust growth alongside specific sector challenges. The country achieved a record 4.3 million foreign tourist visits by September 2025, with projected tourism revenues expected to hit $4.5 billion for the year. Natia Turnava, President of the National Bank of Georgia, highlighted a growing interest from international investors. However, the agricultural sector faces issues, notably with grape harvesting, leading a "Harvest Management Company" to request an additional 100 million GEL to manage surplus grapes. A critical report revealed that 8 out of the top 10 companies by turnover in Georgia are engaged in gambling activities. Meanwhile, the proposed 2026 budget includes a 20 GEL increase in pensions, contrasted with a 1400 GEL raise for the salaries of the President and Prime Minister.
Internationally, the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine remained relevant to Georgian news, with reports indicating Russia's potential 60% dependence on imported fuel by year-end and the United States' commitment to providing further aid to Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is scheduled to visit the US on October 17, where he is expected to meet with former US President Donald Trump.