Georgia: Overview

Travel Warning: Political Unrest - Uncertain Security in the North

Following the January 2008 presidential election, won by Mikhail Saakashvili, opposition supporters challenging the result staged peaceful protests in Tbilisi. Prior to this, in November 2007, political demonstrations turned violent, resulting in a temporary state of emergency being imposed. Although Saakashvili's ruling party won parliamentary elections on 21 May, the opposition bloc claims the results were rigged, and further unrest is expected. Travellers should avoid large gatherings and demonstrations. Check out Safe Travel for updated government warnings or the Thorn Tree travel forum for insights from travellers.

Travellers are also advised to avoid the border regions of Chechnya, Dagestan, North Ossetia, Ingushetia, Kabarda-Balkar and Karachay-Cherkessia. The main risks to travellers in these areas are land mines, civil unrest and a high incidence of kidnapping. The Pankisi Gorge area north of Akhmeta is the site of a concerted counter-terrorism campaign, and travellers should avoid unaccompanied travel to Svaneti. The breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia should also be avoided. Russia recently announced its intention to increase its military presence in these areas, and tensions are running high.

severity: High-level alert