Protests against the government persist, yet a noticeable trend shows the departure of the younger generation. Cultural gatherings, which are becoming increasingly sparse, have become sources of solace. In a piece for The Guardian, Georgian writer, actor, screenwriter, and photographer Archil Kikodze noted a sense of abandonment, stating, “Here in Georgia our festivals are full, but our poets are in prison – and now we feel abandoned by Europe.”
During the International Literature Festival in Tbilisi in September 2025, Kikodze observed high attendance, suggesting a vibrant local engagement.
He recounted a conversation with Icelandic writer Sjón, who warned, “They want us to stop seeing each other, to lose contact, to feel alone.” When speaking of “they,” Sjón alluded to global forces, including populists, fascists, and fundamentalists. Kikodze’s observations highlight a perceived challenge to civil discourse within our society. The contrast between the outwardly vibrant cultural scenes and the underlying political anxieties suggests a growing sense of isolation.
The concern raised points to a broader struggle to maintain community connection amidst escalating global polarization. For our nation, here in Georgia, the cultural pulse remains strong, yet the narrative suggests an increasing vulnerability to external and internal pressures.
Topics: #our #here #georgia
Protests against the government persist in Georgia, though a noticeable trend indicates the emigration of the younger generation. Cultural gatherings, which are becoming increasingly rare, are current