From April 25–27, we welcomed a passionate group of young civic leaders from across Georgia to the first phase of our KAS Academy for Civic Education – Class of 2025. Over three days, they explored topics like leadership, rule of law, civic engagement, and media freedom, guided by expert speakers and hands-on workshops.

Our participants didn't just learn—they collaborated, debated, and developed actionable ideas for community initiatives that promote democratic values. They also began building a strong network of like-minded peers ready to shape Georgia’s future.

We’re proud to support this new generation of changemakers and can’t wait to see how their ideas take shape.

Russia to Increase Meddling in Armenia

Amid Yerevan's pivot toward the West, Russia is intensifying efforts to reassert its influence in the country. According to reports, Sergei Kiriyenko, First Deputy Chief of Staff of the Russian Presidential Administration, has been tasked with advancing Russian interests in Armenia ahead of the 2026 elections. Reflecting this strategy, the Russian Ambassador, Sergei Kopyrkin, warned that the West is attempting to open a "second front" in Armenia, a statement perceived by some as a veiled threat.

110th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide

Armenia marked the 110th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, honoring the 1.5 million Armenians killed in the Ottoman Empire during World War I, with commemorations held on 24 April 2025. While the genocide has been recognized by many countries and international bodies, the government has recently indicated that international recognition is no longer a key priority in its foreign policy. This shift has stirred domestic debate—some interpret it as a pragmatic move toward normalization with Turkey, while others criticize it as a compromise on historical justice.

Communist Candidate Elected Gyumri Mayor

On April 16, 2025, Vardan Ghukasyan of the Communist Party of Armenia was elected mayor of Gyumri, Armenia’s second-largest city, marking a significant political shift. His election followed a coalition of four opposition groups securing a majority in the city council, unseating the ruling Civil Contract party. Ghukasyan, who previously served as mayor from 1999 to 2012, has expressed support for a union state with Russia modelled on Belarus, underlining a strong pro-Russian stance.

MEGOBARI Act Passes US House – GD sees Deep State.

The US House of Representatives has passed the MEGOBARI Act, which mandates sanctions on Georgian officials accused of undermining democracy or aligning with Russian interests. In response, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze penned an open letter to Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance—neither of whom had any direct involvement with the bill. In the letter, Kobakhidze called for respect for Georgia’s sovereignty and criticized the legislation as allegedly hostile to Georgia’s government and portrayed it as part of an ominous “Orwellian” narrative in which allies are treated as enemies.

GD Chairman Garibashvili Quits Politics - Kobakhidze takes over party leadership (again)

On April 25, 2025, Georgian Dream leader Irakli Garibashvili announced his retirement from politics, citing a desire to focus on family. A founding member of the party, he had held top roles including Prime Minister (2013-2015 and 2021-24). Despite stepping down, he reaffirmed loyalty to party founder Bidzina Ivanishvili. His departure led to a leadership reshuffle, with Irakli Kobakhidze elected as the new party chair at the May 7 congress, where he also unveiled a new political council. Kobakhidze had already served as GD chariman from 2021-2024.

Mtavari Shuts Down – Georgian Media Environment Shrinks Further

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has published its annual World Press Freedom Index, with Georgia dropping 11 places to 114th, reflecting a worsening media environment. This decline coincides with the permanent shutdown of Georgia's leading opposition broadcaster, Mtavari Arkhi, announced on May 1, 2025. The channel cited a severe financial crisis allegedly triggered by co-founder Zaza Okuashvili, whom Director General Giorgi Gabunia accused of colluding with the ruling party to silence dissenting media.

Russia launches direct flights to Abkhazia - Moscow hints at Putin visit

In May 2025, Russia resumed direct flights to Sukhumi, the capital of Georgia's breakaway region Abkhazia, for the first time in over 30 years. The move, seen as a challenge to Georgia’s sovereignty, drew criticism from opposition figures and civil society, as well as concern from the EU and Ukraine. Tensions rose further with the announcement of a possible visit of Vladimir Putin to Abkhazia, seen as reinforcing Moscow’s influence in the region.

Baku Holds Military Drills in Nakhichevan Amid Regional Tensions
At the beginning of May, Azerbaijan launched large-scale military exercises in the Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic, some conducted independently, and others held jointly with Türkiye. The drills involved artillery units, armored vehicles, and special forces, and were aimed at enhancing combat readiness and operational coordination. The exercises come amid continued tensions with Armenia and increasing militarization along the border. Nakhichevan’s strategic location—bordering both Armenia and Iran—adds to the geopolitical sensitivity of the maneuvers.

Azerbaijan Deepens Ties with China

From 22 to 25 April 2025, President Aliyev visited Beijing, where he and President Xi Jinping signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership agreement. This accord encompasses cooperation across various sectors, including energy, the digital economy, transport infrastructure, and cultural exchange. Notably, the two nations agreed to abolish visa requirements for ordinary passport holders. The partnership highlights Azerbaijan’s role in China's Belt and Road Initiative, positioning Baku as a key logistics and connectivity hub between Asia and Europe.