Recent protests in Tbilisi highlighted the clash between Georgia's conservative traditions and emerging liberal views, following police raids on popular nightclubs. The raids, part of a drug crackdown, led to demonstrations dubbed the 'Raveolution,' with participants advocating for freedom and opposing police brutality. Counter-protests by far-right groups underscored societal divisions. The protests also spotlighted Georgia's harsh drug policies, with calls for reform inspired by Portugal's model. The government partially conceded, promising investigations and relaxed anti-drug laws. The events coincided with sensitive LGBT rights issues, reflecting ongoing cultural tensions.

EU Ambassador Pawel Herczynski urged Georgians to maintain their path towards EU membership during a Europe Day event in Tbilisi. His remarks come amid a crackdown on protests against a 'foreign agent' bill, which critics argue could suppress civil society and hinder Georgia's EU aspirations. A prominent critic of the bill was detained by Georgian police, highlighting tensions surrounding the legislation.

Georgia's parliament, led by the Georgian Dream party, has passed tax legislation that critics argue could transform the country into a tax haven, potentially attracting illicit funds and protecting oligarch Bidzina Ivanishvili from Western sanctions. The move comes amid protests over a 'foreign agents' bill and concerns about Georgia's alignment with Russia. The National Bank of Georgia has also taken steps, such as increasing gold reserves, possibly to shield against sanctions. The U.S. has sanctioned former prosecutor Otar Partskhaladze, linked to Ivanishvili, for alleged Russian ties, raising further political tensions.

Georgia is distancing itself from Taiwan as it seeks closer ties with China, highlighted by a recent strategic-partnership agreement and Georgia's refusal to recognize Taiwanese passports. This stance contrasts with many Western governments' increased support for Taipei amid Chinese pressure. Taiwan's upcoming elections on January 13 are being closely watched, with concerns over China's influence. Taiwanese Vice President Lai Ching-te leads the presidential race, with his potential victory possibly escalating tensions with China. Georgia's pro-Beijing policy is influenced by its EU membership aspirations and the status of its Russian-occupied regions, Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

Georgia is distancing itself from Taiwan amid the island's crucial elections, aligning more closely with China through strategic partnerships and economic agreements. This stance contrasts with the increasing support Taiwan receives from Western nations. Taiwan's Foreign Minister Joseph Wu has criticized Georgia's isolationist policy, while Georgian officials cite concerns over regional separatist movements as a reason for their stance. The upcoming Taiwanese elections see Vice President Lai Ching-te leading, with significant implications for Taiwan-China relations. Georgia's pro-Beijing position may impact its EU membership aspirations.

A recent incident in Tbilisi highlighted the pervasive racism faced by black people in Georgia. Nigerian national Hassan Olatunde Abiola was attacked by three men who identified as skinheads. Despite reporting the incident, the police treated it as a minor verbal insult, raising concerns about the authorities' commitment to addressing racism. The article discusses the broader societal attitudes and ineffective state policies that facilitate discrimination. It also references past incidents of racial discrimination and the legal framework in place, which has been criticized for not effectively preventing hate crimes.

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili's past advisory role with the controversial Chinese company CEFC China Energy has drawn scrutiny as Georgia deepens ties with China. CEFC's involvement in Georgia, including a significant stake in the Poti Free Industrial Zone, is seen as a foundation for current Sino-Georgian relations. The company's history of corruption and political influence, coupled with Garibashvili's connections, raises concerns about Georgia's geopolitical orientation and its implications for EU accession. The article highlights the complex interplay between business, politics, and international relations in Georgia's evolving relationship with China.

The Georgian government has announced that a Chinese consortium will build a strategic port on Georgia's Black Sea coast, a decision that may strain ties with the West. The consortium includes state-owned Chinese firms with controversial histories, raising concerns about corruption and strategic influence. The project is part of the Middle Corridor trade network, crucial for trade between Europe and Asia. The decision follows the Georgian parliament's controversial 'foreign agent' law, suggesting a strategic alignment with China. The port project, with a 49% Chinese stake, could impact EU strategies post-Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The U.S. and NATO have expressed concerns about China's growing influence in strategic infrastructure projects.

Georgia's parliament, led by the Georgian Dream party, has passed tax legislation that critics argue could transform the country into a tax haven, potentially attracting illicit funds and protecting oligarch Bidzina Ivanishvili from Western sanctions. The move comes amid broader concerns about Georgia's political alignment, with critics pointing to a pattern of appeasing Russia and undermining EU integration efforts. The National Bank of Georgia has also taken steps, such as increasing gold reserves, possibly to shield the country from future sanctions. The legislation has sparked significant domestic and international criticism, highlighting tensions between pro-Western and pro-Russian influences within Georgia.

Georgia is distancing itself from Taiwan amid the island's crucial elections, aligning more closely with China. This shift is part of Georgia's strategy to attract Chinese investment and support for its territorial integrity concerning Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Despite Taiwan's efforts to engage, Georgia maintains a strict policy of non-recognition towards Taiwanese passports. The article highlights the broader geopolitical implications, including the EU's stance and the potential impact on Taiwan-China relations.