After regaining independence in 1991, Georgia has at times been regarded as one of the most promising democratic reformers in the post-Soviet region. More than three decades later, the country is experiencing significant political and institutional strain. Recent legislative developments, tensions between governing institutions, and large-scale public protests have raised concerns about the resilience of democratic safeguards and the future of the country’s development.
This panel will bring together leading scholars and practitioners to examine Georgia’s democratic trajectory, situating it within broader examples of authoritarianism and the use of lawmaking and other formal legal mechanisms to consolidate power and undermine democratic accountability. Speakers will explore the country’s post-independence democratic development, recent political and institutional strains, and the role of law, institutions, and civic resistance in shaping democratic resilience.
Sponsorship
This event is hosted by the Harvard European Law Association in collaboration with the Program on Georgian Studies at the Davis Center, Harvard University.
Accessibility
The Davis Center for Russian and Eurasian Studies at Harvard University encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact us at 617-495-4037 or daviscenter@fas.harvard.edu in advance of your participation or visit. Requests for Sign Language interpreters and/or CART providers should be made at least two weeks in advance if possible. Please note that the Davis Center will make every effort to secure services but that services are subject to availability.
