BBC Chemical Weapon Claims Dominate Georgian News Amidst Economic Surge and Policy Shifts
Today, December 1, 2025, Georgian news was largely dominated by a contentious report from the BBC alleging the use of World War I-era chemical agents, identified as "Camite," against protesters in Georgia during November-December 2024. This report has ignited a political firestorm, with the State Security Service (SSS) launching an investigation into "assistance in hostile activities" and "abuse of power." In response, opposition parties have called for an independent international inquiry, citing concerns over the impartiality of domestic investigations.
The ruling Georgian Dream party has vehemently denied the allegations, announcing its intention to initiate legal proceedings against the BBC in international courts. Former Minister of Internal Affairs, Vakhtang Gomelauri, acknowledged that such substances were acquired by the ministry but claimed their use ceased in 2012, placing responsibility on the previous government. Concurrently, opposition figure Aleko Elisashvili was sentenced to imprisonment following his detention in connection with an alleged "terrorist act attempt" and confrontation with bailiffs, a case drawing significant public and political attention. International bodies such as ALDE (Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe) condemned the alleged chemical use as a "shocking attack on fundamental rights," while Bill Browder, author of the Magnitsky Act, questioned whether the Georgian government acted independently or under Russian influence.
Economically, the day brought positive news and significant policy announcements. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze revealed that Georgia's economic growth is poised to surpass the IMF's 7.2% projection for 2025, potentially reaching 7.6%. For the first time, the country's GDP is expected to exceed 100 billion GEL, with nominal GDP per capita crossing the $10,000 threshold. The National Bank of Georgia achieved a historic record by purchasing $2.103 billion in foreign exchange reserves. However, the government also announced that the state program for employment of socially vulnerable citizens would not continue in 2026, and new regulations on viticulture and winemaking are being tightened.
In other key developments, the government unveiled plans to establish two new university cities in Kutaisi and Rustavi, projected to accommodate 20,000 and 40,000 students respectively. On the international front, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky provided an update on the conflict, noting progress in liberating Kupiansk and emphasizing that territorial issues remain the most challenging aspect of peace plan discussions. Emmanuel Macron reiterated calls for increased pressure on Russia and a peace plan negotiated with Ukraine and Europe. Additionally, new regulations came into effect, making winter tires mandatory on certain road sections from December 1 to March 1, while simplified employment procedures for Georgian citizens in Poland were revoked as of today.