Georgia marks Independence Day with protest marches, cultural events

Georgians are expected to take to the streets today to mark Independence Day with a series of protest marches and public events across the capital, Tbilisi. The day’s agenda, organized by various civil groups, cultural institutions, and student movements, is seen as both a celebration of national identity and a demonstration of public sentiment amid ongoing political tensions.

The first events are scheduled to begin at 15:00, with two separate marches departing simultaneously: the This Day is Ours demonstration, organized by the Public Servants' Union invoking Article 78 of the Constitution, will set off from Republic Square; and the March of the Public Broadcaster, departing from the headquarters of Georgia’s national broadcaster.

At 16:00, the cultural community will join with the Georgia is Alive and Independent march, gathering at the Philharmonic Hall. Participants from the fields of theatre, cinema, architecture, literature, visual arts, music, and nightlife are expected to attend, transforming the demonstration into a showcase of Georgia’s creative spirit.

A major march titled March of Independence of Georgia – Strong Georgia will begin at 17:00 at the Rustaveli Monument. At the same time, a student-led open exhibition will open between the historic Kashveti Church and the First Gymnasium, featuring works that reflect the themes of freedom and independence.

Later in the evening, the documentary To Save Independence will be screened at 18:30, followed by video greetings from international supporters and a message of congratulations from Georgia’s fifth President, Salome Zourabichvili, at 19:00.