In Tbilisi, demonstrators gathered outside parliament, turning the holiday into a moment of political expression as well as worship. The protests have continued for more than a year, sparked by the government’s decision to suspend talks on joining the European Union.
Many protesters say the move distances Georgia from Europe and draws it closer to Russia’s influence. Some attended Christmas Mass wrapped in Georgian and EU flags, linking faith with calls for EU integration.
The demonstrations began in November 2024 after Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced the halt in accession talks. Since then, the ruling Georgian Dream party has tightened rules on public gatherings and passed laws affecting rights groups and independent media, drawing criticism at home and abroad.