It has now been over 160 days since the people of Georgia have been standing more determined than ever at the gates of democracy. Since 28th November, not a single day has passed without the central avenue of the capital being closed by peaceful protests—a testament to the resilience of the Georgian people and their unwavering commitment to Europe and the values of freedom and civic engagement. Among the most active participants have been young people, who remain one of the driving forces of this civic movement.
Since Spring 2024, a series of laws have been introduced, such as the so-called “Law of Transparency of Foreign Influence” and even more severe laws later on, which severely restrict and endanger the activities of civil society, and youth organisations, including Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Georgia, imposing serious threat to democratic values.
The Georgian civil society has been systematically targeted, where amongst them, civil society movements and NGOs have faced attempts to suppress democratic participation and voices.
Despite all, Georgians have not stopped fighting for their democratic values. Daily peaceful demonstrations have been going on in the streets of Tbilisi and other cities for more than four months, uniting hundreds of people of all ages, origins, professions and interests. All of them come together under a single message: Release all unlawfully detained individuals and hold new, fair, and transparent elections.
One of the many protest marches was titled “With Western Education Towards Europe.” A group of Georgians who studied abroad came together in Tbilisi to reaffirm their belief in the value of internationally-minded and student-centred education for Georgia’s future. ESN Georgia proudly joined this march, standing up for educational opportunities rooted in European values and the principles of international mobility.
Founded in 2011 by Georgian alumni of the Erasmus+ exchange programme, ESN Georgia has developed into an impactful youth organisation connecting local residents with international students. It facilitates the exchange of knowledge and culture while promoting diversity, tolerance, and democracy within Georgian society.
As a strong advocate for European education and international student mobility, ESN Georgia organises activities in schools, universities and public spaces that promote Erasmus+, youth work, volunteering and higher education opportunities. As a volunteer-based organisation, ESN also commits to creating a tangible social impact, whether through visits to elderly homes, children's centres, or offering support to those in need, fostering solidarity and unity.
ESN Georgia has consistently supported the defence of democratic values. Together with exchange students, its volunteers have actively engaged in civic actions since the introduction of the “Law of Transparency of Foreign Influence”, inspiring others to take a stand for positive change in society.
Endorsing the joint statement by EU Vice President Kaja Kallas and Commissioner Marta Kos, as well as resolutions of the European Parliament, the Erasmus Student Network stands with its volunteers, students, young people, and all Georgians who have peacefully protested to protect civil society and civic space in Georgia. We also condemn any harmful actions towards the students, youth, and other peaceful protestors, who are making their voices heard and are defending democracy.
Back in June 2024, we published our first response to the introduction of the “Law on Transparency of Foreign Influence” by the Georgian Government, highlighting the crucial role that civil society and international support play in promoting equality, democracy, and sustainable development in the country.
During the recent elections, ESN Georgia encouraged citizens, particularly young people, to participate in the democratic process by voting, advocating that through democracy and respect for the rule of law, positive change is possible.
In December, ESN Georgia was honoured to co-organise the Erasmus+ Participants March, once again giving voice to local youth advocating for the protection of Georgia’s education system and a democratic, transparent and hopeful future. Hundreds of Erasmus+ participants—students, teachers, academics, graduates, civil society representatives and youth organisations—gathered in front of the Ministry of Education. As the march moved through the central streets of Tbilisi, carrying the Erasmus+ banner and waving Georgian and EU flags, participants made a powerful statement of support for Georgia’s European future.
What is happening in Georgia highlights, once more, the vital role of youth in shaping society. This moment serves as a strong reminder of the powerful role young people play in bringing about meaningful change. Whether through facilitating exchange between local and international residents, supporting community initiatives, sharing knowledge and experiences, or raising awareness of Erasmus+ and other educational opportunities, the Erasmus Student Network remains committed to promoting youth engagement and empowerment.
As an international youth organisation rooted in civil society, we firmly stand by the people of Georgia. We remain committed to the country’s future in Europe today and for many years to come.
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