The Messenger - Georgia's English Language Daily

Georgia Fines Finnish Foreign Minister for Joining Protest, Files Complaint to OSCE

Georgia's Interior Ministry has fined Finnish Foreign Minister and current OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Elina Valtonen 5,000 lari for taking part in a protest on Tbilisi's Rustaveli Avenue. (more)

Parliament Approves Bill Restricting Political Rights of Individuals Linked to Banned Parties

The Georgian Dream parliament majority has approved, in its final reading, a sweeping set of legislative amendments that restrict political rights for individuals "associated" with parties deemed unconstitutional. (more)

The News in Brief

"Parliament Tightens Penalties for Protest Offenses" (more)

Eight Opposition Parties Don't Recognise Local Elections as Legitimate, Refuse to Participate

Boycott or participate in local elections? This question has fractured Georgia's pro-Western opposition forces. Eight opposition parties have announced they will not take part in the local self-government elections scheduled for October 4. (more)