Georgia Rings in 2026 with Sweeping Reforms, Winter Challenges, and Political Reflections
As Georgia ushered in the New Year on January 1, 2026, the country saw a multitude of new laws and regulations come into effect, alongside challenging weather conditions and a mix of domestic and international news. The transition was marked by significant policy shifts, impacting citizens from various aspects of life, from personal finances to environmental protection.
Among the most impactful changes, public sector salaries saw a 10% increase, and pensions were also raised. Drivers whose licenses were previously suspended due to point exhaustion received an automatic reinstatement with a fresh allocation of 100 points. Environmentally, a ban on single-use plastic cutlery, plates, and cups made from plastic and expanded polystyrene was implemented, with fines for violations reaching up to 1000 GEL. New animal welfare legislation also came into force, prohibiting non-medical veterinary operations such as tail docking and ear cropping. Furthermore, stricter fines of 100 GEL were introduced for excessive vehicle noise between 11 PM and 8 AM, while intercity microbus regulations were updated to require vehicles to be equipped with tachographs and speed limiters. Tourists entering Georgia now face new obligations, and the excise tax on imported cigarettes increased by 85 Tetri per pack, likely leading to price hikes.
The advent of the New Year was accompanied by severe weather across Georgia. Heavy snowfall led to widespread road closures and traffic restrictions, particularly in mountainous areas. In Svaneti, an avalanche temporarily trapped citizens in a tunnel, though they were safely rescued. The National Environmental Agency issued warnings for a sharp drop in air temperatures anticipated on January 3-4.
Politically, the New Year brought a flurry of greetings and reflections from national leaders. Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, and former Prime Minister Bidzina Ivanishvili all issued statements emphasizing stability and national interests. President Salome Zurabishvili spoke of national unity amidst challenges. Meanwhile, a protest rally on Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi continued into the New Year, marking its 400th day of demonstrations.
In other significant news, a high-profile murder occurred near the Vake Courts in Tbilisi on New Year's Eve, leading to an arrest. Internationally, a tragic fire at a ski resort in Switzerland claimed dozens of lives. Developments in the Russia-Ukraine conflict included Ukraine receiving two additional Patriot air defense systems, while US intelligence concluded that Ukraine did not attempt an attack on President Putin's residence. Globally, Bulgaria officially joined the Eurozone, adopting the Euro as its national currency.