Representatives of Culture and Arts: The regime has repeatedly tried to silence, bribe and stop us, but despite everything, the voice of culture is heard in continuous protest – on November 28 we join the rally

Representatives of the cultural and artistic community announced that on November 28, at 19:00, they will join other public groups, politicians, activists, and all citizens for whom the future of the country matters — those who want to live in a democratic, fair and free country.

According to their statement, one year ago “Georgian Dream” carried out a constitutional coup and rejected the European choice of the Georgian people.

“On November 28, 2024, Georgian Dream carried out a constitutional coup and rejected the European choice of the Georgian people. It took from us the right to choose a democratic, fair and secure country to live in. That day became the starting point of the Georgian people's continuous protest. The cultural sector was one of the first to come under repression and pressure. The regime has repeatedly tried to silence, bribe and stop us, but despite everything, the voice of culture is heard in the ongoing protest. A society that loves freedom and justice is still outside and continues to fight against injustice. Despite increased pressure, the growing number of political and conscience prisoners, and repression, Georgian society is still outside, has not gone anywhere, and continues to demand fair elections and the release of prisoners.

On November 28, at 19:00, we — representatives of culture and the arts — will join other public groups, politicians, activists, and every citizen for whom the future of our country is important and who wants to live in a democratic, fair and free country, who believe that only beside true friends will we be protected and have the opportunity for real development,” the cultural community representatives say.

For reference, on November 28, 2024, Georgia’s Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced at a briefing that Georgia will not place the issue of opening negotiations with the European Union on the agenda until 2028.

“We have decided not to place the issue of opening negotiations with the European Union on the agenda until the end of 2028. Also, until the end of 2028 we are refusing any EU budgetary grants.

The end of 2028 is the time when Georgia will be ready — properly prepared economically — to open negotiations in 2030 for EU membership,” said Irakli Kobakhidze.