Let’s support the people of Georgia in their fight for freedom.
In just one year, Georgia has shifted from democracy to authoritarianism.
Rigged elections, silenced media, and punishments for protests have affected thousands.
Support those who refuse to give up and are fighting for a free and independent country – help Eliso, Lusine, Gvantsa, and others in their efforts.
Georgia was a democracy leader in the South Caucasus until 2022. After clearly rigged parliamentary elections in October 2024 and the suspension of EU accession talks, widespread protests have erupted across Georgian cities.
Over the past year, the Georgian parliament has passed dozens of laws that effectively prevent independent media and NGOs from operating. Draconian fines and punishments for participating in protests have been introduced.
Despite this, Georgian society refuses to give up. People continue to work within their communities, participate in protests, and hope that Georgia will once again become a free and democratic country.
Below, we share the stories of Eliso, Lusine, and Gvantsa – individuals who represent the spirit of contemporary Georgia. Please support them and others in their fight for freedom.
Eliso Dzanashia Eliso is a journalist and civic activist, one of the few brave voices defending local rights to a clean environment, free information, and open debate despite increasing pressure. She founded the community space Limena in the port city of Poti, western Georgia. Limena is a unique place in an often-overlooked industrial region, providing a safe space for people to meet, discuss important issues, and build community. Despite attacks, threats, and financial challenges, Eliso continues to maintain Limena as an island of freedom and solidarity. Your support will help preserve Limena – as a safe place for Poti residents and as proof that courage and civic engagement matter, even in the most forgotten places.
Lusine Dostibegiani Lusine is a long-time civic activist from the Kvemo Kartli region. She founded the social enterprise Orbi in the remote village of Samshvilde, creating a space that combines environmental education, community life, and youth engagement. Orbi has revitalized the village – locals organize community events, and under street artist Tamoonz, a striking mural of a bald eagle now reminds the community of the value of their local landscape. However, after severe restrictions on cooperation with Algeti National Park and Georgia’s foreign agent law, the social enterprise faces existential uncertainty. Your support can decide its future – helping preserve a place that gives youth opportunity, the community hope, and nature respect.
Gvantsa Pertia (Pertso) Gvantsa (Pertso) is a democratic activist, non-binary community organizer, and leads a Queer initiative in Tbilisi. They are among those who have chosen to stay in Georgia – not because it is safe, but because the community needs their presence. Since 2023, increasing numbers of queer people and activists have been forced to leave Georgia. Safe spaces are disappearing, networks are breaking down, and many remain isolated and invisible. Gvantsa’s initiative emerged as a response to this painful gap, connecting queer people across generations, environments, and borders, creating spaces to meet, share grief, envision the future, and support each other. Gvantsa was among the organizers of Pride Week in 2021, when far-right groups violently attacked activists and journalists. During a Pride march attempt, Gvantsa was injured and has since faced ongoing harassment, disinformation campaigns, and intimidation. Yet their initiative continues – cautiously, persistently, and with maximum care for the most vulnerable.
The funds raised through this campaign will support activists to survive this challenging and dangerous period.
Thank you!
NESEHNUTÍ has long been dedicated to the development of the democratic and civic sector in the South Caucasus and Ukraine.
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