In a move that has deepened political tensions and raised fears about the erosion of democratic space in Georgia, the prosecutor’s office has frozen the bank accounts of seven prominent non-governmental organizations (NGOs), accusing them of financing so-called “sabotage” connected to the mass protests that erupted across the country in 2024.

The decision, approved by Tbilisi City Court, marks one of the most aggressive steps yet by the ruling Georgian Dream party against civil society groups. Critics argue it is part of a broader campaign to silence dissent, weaken independent voices, and consolidate power in the run-up to parliamentary elections scheduled for later this year.

According to the prosecutor’s office, the targeted organizations allegedly provided financial support and equipment to demonstrators involved in violent confrontations with police during last year’s anti-government protests. Authorities claim that the NGOs coordinated the purchase of items such as protective glasses, masks, face shields, and pepper spray, which were used by protesters to resist security forces.

“The investigation has established that the provision of equipment to protest participants who committed violent acts against law enforcement officers was carried out in a coordinated manner, including with funding from non-governmental organizations,” prosecutors stated.

The accusations come amid long-running tensions between the ruling Georgian Dream government, led by billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili’s political machine, and a civil society sector that has frequently criticized its policies on corruption, democratic backsliding, and the country’s geopolitical orientation.

The targeted groups, however, have strongly denied........

© Blitz