ITUC General Secretary Luc Triangle said: “We are in solidarity with the Georgian Trade Union Confederation (GTUC) and its call to protect democratic rights and freedoms. Georgian workers feel betrayed by politicians who prioritise their hunger for power above the will of the people. We reject violence from both the government and individuals infiltrating peaceful protests with malicious intent.

“Further escalation will only lead to chaos and tragedy. The government must end now its violent suppression of peaceful demonstrations, and lift restrictions on freedom of the press, association and speech. It must also engage in dialogue, including with civil society groups, to resolve this crisis.

“The government must honour the aspirations of the Georgian people to live in a country that respects and embodies democratic values, human rights, the rule of law and is moving towards a European future.”

In a statement, the GTUC explained: “We believe that only through European integration we can achieve the well-being of society, provision of social security, decent employment and, in general, guarantee unwavering protection and respect for human rights.”