The number of members of ultranationalist groups is growing day by day, which makes the threat posed by the strengthening of extremist forces real in the country.

The Democracy Research Institute has been monitoring rallies of political nature since September 1, 2020. As part of the monitoring, on September 27, DRI monitors observed a demonstration held by ultranationalist forces in connection with the day of the fall of Sokhumi. The organizers used Facebook to organize the rally, which was attended by about 90 participants, mostly aged 18-25 years. The rally was regulated and the smooth movement of transport was ensured by the patrol police.

 

The nationalist march started near Vake Park. Demonstrators marched to the Embassy of the Swiss Confederation (where the interests section of the Russian Federation is located) and criticized the occupation of Georgian territories by Russia. The organizers of the rally said it was necessary to put an end to the accusations against Georgian nationalists, according to which, they are pursuing Russia's interests. Later, the demonstrators paid tribute to the fighters fallen for the unity of the homeland in the Heroes Square.

 

The marchers chanted “Glory to Georgia." Some violent statements were also made. During a Facebook live, one of the demonstrators threatened to kill all the "occupants" and representatives of the anti-national movement.

 

Despite the non-violent form of expression, the demonstration was sharply militaristic in nature. The organizers instructed their supporters to bring not only Georgian, but also fascist and Nazi flags to the rally. Observers of the Democracy Research Institute also noticed people dressed in military uniforms, wearing military-tactical masks and referring to each other as members of a "squad."

 

The Democracy Research Institute notes that the authorities fail to properly assess the threat posed by the rise of ultranationalist and extremist groups and to prevent them from recruiting and radicalizing new members, which will lead to a significant strengthening of radical forces in the future.