Most Georgians Don't Support Protesters Says Many Tbilisi Residents

On-the-Ground Report from Tbilisi Amid Protests: Patrick Lancaster Investigates Diverse Opinions

In his latest on-the-ground report, independent journalist Patrick Lancaster explores the evolving political situation in Tbilisi, Georgia. With protests persisting near the Georgian parliament for over ten days, Lancaster shifts his focus away from the immediate protest zone to capture perspectives from the broader population. His interviews with local residents shed light on varying viewpoints about the protests, the government, and Georgia’s future.
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Location and Context
Lancaster begins his report in central Tbilisi, approximately two kilometers from the protest area near the parliament building. The ongoing demonstrations are reportedly fueled by allegations of election fraud and dissatisfaction with the ruling Georgian Dream party. Lancaster’s aim is to gather a diverse set of opinions from people removed from the protests.

Interviews with Local Residents
Lancaster’s interviews, conducted in both Russian and English, primarily involve older and middle-aged residents. Key themes emerge from their responses:

Skepticism Toward the Protests:

Many interviewees express disapproval of the protests, describing them as unrepresentative of the general population. Several estimate that only a small percentage of Georgians, between 5-10%, support the demonstrations.

Some respondents criticize the protesters’ methods, including accusations of aggression and use of Molotov cocktails. One resident emphasizes that protests should remain peaceful and should not harm police or civilians.

Support for the Government:

Numerous residents interviewed affirm their support for the Georgian Dream party and Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili, viewing the government’s actions as legitimate.

Several respondents highlight the importance of peace and stability, dismissing claims of election fraud and arguing that the elections were conducted fairly.

Views on Europe and Russia:

While many residents express a desire for closer ties with Europe, they emphasize maintaining Georgia’s traditions and independence.

Opinions on Russia vary, with some condemning Russian aggression but stressing the importance of peaceful relations with all countries.

Generational Divide:

Lancaster notes a generational divide in opinions, with younger protesters advocating for pro-European reforms and older generations focusing on stability and tradition. Many older respondents express frustration with what they perceive as the protesters' lack of respect for Georgia’s cultural heritage.

Concerns About Foreign Influence:

Some interviewees speculate about foreign involvement in the protests, questioning the motivations of international NGOs and external actors.

Challenges in Gathering Opinions
Lancaster encounters difficulty engaging with younger residents, noting reluctance from many to speak on camera. Despite this, he emphasizes the importance of showcasing all perspectives, including those critical of the protests, to provide an uncensored view of the situation.

Concluding Observations
Lancaster concludes that the opinions he gathered diverge significantly from the narrative presented by the protesters. He encourages viewers to seek information from multiple sources to form their own educated opinions about the unfolding events in Georgia.

Call to Action
The report closes with Lancaster urging viewers to support independent journalism by subscribing to his Substack and engaging with his content. He promises further updates and in-depth reporting from Georgia as the situation develops.
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1. 0:00 - Introduction from Tbilisi
2.1:30 - Exploring Opinions Away from the Protests
3. 3:45 - Criticism of the Protests
4. 6:20 - Support for Georgian Dream Government
5. 9:10 - Perspectives on Europe and Russia
6.12:15 - Generational Divide in Georgia
7. 15:00 - Concerns About Foreign Influence
8. 18:30 - Closing Thoughts and Call to Action