Georgian analysts predict consequences of attacks on journalists in Tbilisi

The attacks of LGBT opponents on journalists in Tbilisi could turn into a media vs. authorities confrontation, which will exacerbate the political crisis. The incident has affected the "Georgian Dream" ratings; while the West may impose sanctions and suspend economic aid to the country, Georgian analysts believe.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that on July 5, as a result of clashes initiated by LGBT opponents in Tbilisi, 55 persons suffered, including 53 journalists.

The July 5 attack on journalists has negatively affected the Georgia's international image, Valery Chechelashvili, a senior researcher at the Georgian Foundation for Strategic and International Studies, believes. "I don't remember that in any country there was such a mass beating of journalists in the streets," he said.

The attacks on journalists may entail not only political consequences, but also economic ones – the inflow of investments will decrease, since investors are interested in security, Mr Chechelashvili has added. To rectify the situation, authorities must find and punish the organizers of the riots, he said.

At the current stage, the situation is not so aggravated that it could provoke resignation of the government, Nodar Kharshiladze, an analyst, believes.

The July 5 riots will negatively affect the ratings of the ruling "Georgian Dream-Democratic Movement" Party, as they resorted to a method unacceptable even for LGBT opponents – violence against journalists, beating up random people, and wounding a tourist from Poland, Mr Kharshiladze has concluded.

Destabilization in the country and protests are in the interests of the opposition, which cannot achieve success in a calm and stable environment, Vladimir Bozhadze, the head of the Centre for Democratic Development and Civil Society, believes.