Georgia to hold three-hour warning strike amid growing protests

A three-hour warning strike has been announced across Georgia on January 15, beginning at 3 p.m.

The strike aims to demonstrate the economic and social consequences of the country's political isolation, as citizens express their frustrations over government policies, Caliber.Az reports, citing Georgian media.

The protest, organized by various opposition groups and civil society organizations, urges the government to address growing concerns over stalled economic progress, rising poverty, and increasing unemployment. Protesters are calling for new elections and the release of detainees arrested during previous demonstrations.

According to the statement issued by the strike organizers, "For three hours we will temporarily close the door and stay outside. With our strike, we will show what awaits us in isolation: a stalled economy; closed businesses; poverty and unemployment. Both the threat and the solution are common to all: new elections and the release of detainees. So: no matter where you work, whether you are a business owner, manager, or employee – join us!"

The ongoing protests gained momentum following a controversial statement by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on November 28, where he declared that negotiations with the European Union would not be pursued until at least 2028. This announcement, viewed by many as a step back from Georgia's European aspirations, has sparked widespread condemnation from opposition groups, civil society, and the international community, many of whom do not recognize Kobakhidze's legitimacy.

The demands of the protesters remain clear and focused: to hold new elections and to free those detained during previous protests. The strike scheduled for January 15 is part of a larger movement calling for political reform and a renewed commitment to Georgia's European integration.

By Khagan Isayev