Back in May 2024, IJAB interviewed Giorgi Kikalishvili, director of the Georgian youth organisation DRONI, about the then protests of young people in Georgia. In light of the current situation, IJAB again reached out to Giorgi to ask about the state of play, what has happened in recent months, and how he feels about the future.
IJAB: How are you currently experiencing the mood in society and during the protests in your country? To what extent has the situation changed compared to the summer of 2024?
Giorgi Kikalishvili: The mood is intense, but at the same time there is this incredible sense of unity and determination. Compared to last summer, things have definitely escalated. People are more organised, more persistent, and more aware of what is at stake. This is no longer just about reacting to individual events; it’s about shaping the future of the country. There is frustration, of course, but also a lot of hope. You can feel that people are not willing to back down.
IJAB: What are the aims and demands behind the current protests?
Giorgi Kikalishvili: At the heart of it, the goal is simple: Georgia belongs in Europe. This is not just a political slogan, it’s a deep conviction shared by the majority of the population. We want to be part of the European community, not just geographically but also politically and culturally.
The main demand right now is free and fair elections. We, the people, believe that the government no longer represents the true will of the people and that needs to change. There is a strong sense that democracy is being undermined, and the protests are a response to that. The protesters are demanding a system that reflects what the majority actually wants.
IJAB: What role do young people play in this? What form do their protests take – for instance, are they protesting in schools and universities? Are the activities different from those six months ago?
Giorgi Kikalishvili: Young people are at the centre of this movement. They are the ones keeping the energy alive. When I start to lose hope, it’s their courage, their creativity and their tireless drive that remind me why we need to keep fighting. They are organising, mobilising, and coming up with new forms of protest like walkouts, artistic performances, flash mobs and social media campaigns. Universities and schools have become key spaces for activism. Compared to six months ago, the protests have become more structured and strategic. There is a stronger focus on non-violent resistance, creative disruption, and keeping the momentum going for the long run.
IJAB: In which cities and regions across the country are the protests taking place?
Giorgi Kikalishvili: Tbilisi is, of course, the main hub, every single day enough people turn out to block the city’s main avenue. But the protests are not just happening in the capital. Batumi, Zugdidi, and Kutaisi are also very active, with regular protests, performances and community-led action. It’s really inspiring to see that this isn’t just a movement confined to one place. People across the country are standing up.
IJAB: What changes would you like to see? What are your hopes for society and for Georgia in the coming months?
Giorgi Kikalishvili: I want to live in a country where institutions are fair, where the police protect people instead of intimidate them, where the courts are independent, and where laws are made in the interests of the people and not those in power. I want to see Georgia move forward, closer to Europe, closer to democracy, closer to a future where people feel safe and valued. Despite everything, I still believe in this future. Some days it's harder than others, but giving up is not an option. Georgia deserves better, and I truly believe that if we keep pushing, real change will come.
IJAB: Thank you!
Giorgi Kikalishvili is head of the youth organisation DRONI in Georgia. DRONI has been working with the EU’s Erasmus+ funding programme as an information centre and deployment site for the European Solidarity Corps in Georgia since 2017. It aims to raise awareness among young people and interest groups, including government institutions and local communities, about the programme. DRONI wants to strengthen the organisation by participating in Erasmus+ because it is seen an excellent opportunity, especially for young people. The organisation has over 200 active members dedicated to supporting the local youth community, and it also welcomes international volunteers. Currently DRONI has ten volunteers, most of them from Germany.
