Georgian Parliament lifts security restrictions after protests subside

The Georgian Parliament has lifted the yellow security level that had been in place due to ongoing protests.

The press service of the legislative body confirmed the cancellation of the yellow security level, which had been enforced since December 12, Caliber.Az reports citing Georgian media.

"The yellow security level in force in the parliament building since November 25 has been cancelled," the statement said.

The security measures were implemented following protests, with restrictions on journalists and other visitors imposed during the first session of Parliament. This session was not recognized by the Georgian president or the entire opposition, who questioned its legitimacy.

On the night of November 29, following the outbreak of large-scale anti-government protests, a red security level was implemented in Parliament. Only individuals with special passes from the chief of staff were allowed entry. On December 6, after clashes between law enforcement and protesters subsided, the security level was downgraded to yellow.

The protests were sparked by a statement from Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, announcing that the ruling Georgian Dream – Democratic Georgia party had decided not to include negotiations on EU membership in the agenda until the end of 2028, and to reject all budgetary grants from the EU. Kobakhidze said that the decision was driven by constant blackmail from the EU regarding the start of accession talks, demands to repeal several laws passed by the Georgian parliament, and calls for sanctions against Georgian authorities.

By Vafa Guliyeva