Issue no: 1135 • MARCH 22 - 25, 2019 • PUBLISHED TWICE WEEKLY PRICE: GEL 2.50

In this week’s issue... The Latest News on the ' - Homeland of Wine' Project NEWS PAGE 3 Kazakh Leader Goes, But His Legacy Remains

POLITICS PAGE 4 FOCUS Parliament Approves ON THE SHEPHERD CASE Draft Law on Selection Extradition looms and we of Judges speak to both sides of the case PAGE 4 POLITICS PAGE 5 Image source: skynews.com Steady Number of Students from Georgia at Bakhtadze Announces New UK Universities SOCIETY PAGE 8 Promises for Education Reform Welcome to Georgia – The Almost immediately, the Prime Minister instituted a major reform of the education sector. “We plan to implement a 5-level reform that involves Musical, One Year On the integration of preschool education, school education, vocational education, higher education and science, the introduction of innovative CULTURE PAGE 9 education systems, and more importantly, the deepening of close ties between education and economics,” Bakhtadze announced when appoint- ing Batiashvili. In Tuesday’s interview, Bakhtadze further discussed the now-ongo- ing reforms. He announced a focus on modernization and technology, saying that new modern kindergartens and fully-technologically equipped schools will be built “in every village, town, and city of the country.” Continued on page 3

Image source: Press Offi ce of the Prime Minister

BY SAMANTHA GUTHRIE

eorgian Prime Minister Mamuka Bakhtadze was interviewed Interpreter & Swedish this week by national news network Imedi TV. He spoke about the country’s education system and future plans for Film Critic Brings Photo its development and reform. Since coming to power, Bakhtadze has had a particular Chronicle of Tarkovsky’s Gfocus on education, consolidating the Ministry of Education and Science with the Ministry of Youth and Sport, appointing as head of the newly formed Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Last Film to Sport in July of last year. CULTURE PAGE 11 GEORGIA TODAY 2 NEWS MARCH 22 - 25, 2019 Gomarduli Ski Resort Project to be Revived duli resort, as the government began BY SAMANTHA GUTHRIE restoring the access road to the resort, and that they were working with the national Economic Council to get the evelopers began working taxes waived and the property returned on Gomarduli Ski Resort to the developers. While the Economic in mountainous Ajara in Council was sympathetic to their demands 2011. Soon after develop- and recommended the Revenue Service ment began, featuring sev- lift the taxes and punishment imposed eralD guesthouses and a restaurant, the on Gomarduli, the property was not Revenue Service of Georgia seized the offi cially returned to the company until property for non-payment of taxes. In earlier this year. 2014, resort director Jemal Darchidze Approximately a two-hour drive from reported that the tax they had failed to Batumi, and a seven-and-a-half-hour trek pay, in the amount of 126,000 GEL ($47,014), from Tbilisi, the resort is expected to be was not included in the original deal popular among people from western between Darchidze’s joint-stock company Georgian and visitors from . It will “Gomarduli” and the Georgian govern- compete with Goderdzi, another small ment, who sold the 52 acres of land to the ski resort in the Ajara Autonomous Repub- company for a symbolic price of 1 GEL. lic, located approximately three hours Darchidze insisted that the deal, made from Batumi, and Bakhmaro, a four-sea- with then-President Mikheil Saakashvili, son playground that offers backcountry promised that the company would be cat skiing in endless powder, but little exempt from taxes for a 15-year period. infrastructure. Bakhmaro is located 2 Image source: Adjara Tour In 2012, however, after just one season hours and 45 minutes from Batumi, fur- GEL ($559,000) in taxes, fees, and fi nes and restaurants, which can currently sequestration on the property of Gomar- of operation, the courts disagreed, say- ther north in the region of Guria. It is not was written off from the company and cater to up to 60 visitors, will be several duli. At a press conference, Rizhvadze ing that Gomarduli was responsible for yet clear what sort of ski infrastructure the property seizure was reversed. The cottages, a stadium, and an extreme expressed his vision for the resort, as a the taxes and seizing the resort’s prop- the Gomarduli developers plan to con- Government of Ajara now holds a 10% sports’ park. The renovation work and boon to the local community, helping to erty for non-payment. struct in the newly reopened resort. stake in the company Gomarduli. new infrastructure is expected to cost develop local infrastructure and a more In early 2017, there were rumors in the Darchidze told the news website Com- The company plans to implement a 300,000 GEL ($111,940). stable local economy. To commemorate media that the Ministry of Finance and mersant that in January, by the Prime three-year development strategy to be In late January, Ajara Chairman Tornike the announcement, a small celebratory Economy of the Ajara Autonomous Minister’s resolution and with the sup- able to host up to 1,000 visitors by 2022. Rizhvadze offi cially announced that the festival was held, attended by company Republic had plans to develop the Gomar- port of Government of Ajara, 1.5 million Adding to the existing fi ve guesthouses decision had been made to remove the representatives and locals. PM Bakhtadze: Georgia, Belarus Have Preconditions to Double Trade two countries,” the PM added. in line with which joint ventures will be BY THEA MORRISON He also highlighted that such exposi- incorporated in Georgia," the PM said. tions and business forums should ensure Before opening the fair, Bakhtadze and the infl ow of additional foreign direct Rusy had a face-to-face meeting. The he Prime Minister of Geor- investments (FDI) in Georgia. sides discussed a number of issues, gia, Mamuka Bakhtadze, “I am confi dent that the economic coop- including prospects for developing ferry stated that there exist all eration which will be nurtured between traffi c between the countries through the necessary preconditions Georgia and Belarus in the coming years, Ukraine, opening a joint venture that to double trade turnover is bound to create many jobs both in will produce elevators and tractors, and Tbetween Georgia and Belarus. Belarus and Georgia,” he said. to deepen cooperation in transport. Bakhtadze made the statement at the In parallel with the fair, Tbilisi hosted A working group of Georgian and Bela- opening of Made in Belarus fair in Tbi- a Georgian-Belorussian Business Forum rusian specialists will create a plan to lisi on Wednesday. The PM opened the which engaged almost 150 Belorussian improve logistical issues in two months fair together with the Deputy Prime companies. that will facilitate the growth of trade Minister of Belarus, Mikhail Rusy, and In the format of the Georgian-Belarus between the countries. noted that the fair of Belorussian prod- Business Council, 14 Georgian and 14 Rusyi also said that Belarus is ready to ucts gives an excellent opportunity not Belorussian companies signed agreements participate in tenders announced for only for establishing business contacts to a total value of $2,806,780. Agreements providing new buses to Tbilisi and between Georgian and Belorussian enter- between the parties were signed on large Batumi. prises, but also for Georgian consumers. agricultural machinery, elevators, export He added that a group will be created “I am thrilled that bilateral trade is of Georgian tea and supply of medicines. in the capital of Belarus, Minsk, which increasing. We have agreed today that Agreements were also signed in the fi eld will work to open a store selling Geor- this is not a maximum benchmark and of scientifi c cooperation. gian products in the city. In 2018, trade we have all the preconditions to at least "I am delighted that we are signing turnover between Georgia and Belarus double the trade volumes between the Image source: PM’s Press Offi ce signifi cant trade contracts with Belarus, amounted to $87.10 million. SUBSCRIBE!

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[email protected] +995 32 229 59 19  Tel: (995 32) 2 45 08 08 10 Galaktion Street E-mail: [email protected] GEORGIA TODAY MARCH 22 - 25, 2019 NEWS 3 The Latest News on the 'Georgia - Homeland of Wine' Project

maladze, along with the management of partner companies, Sony Communica- tions and Terrada Republic, held a press conference at the TMMT Hall exhibition center, which brought together the rep- resentatives of more than 60 local media sources. A Georgian folk song was per- formed by the State Ensemble of Geor- gian Folk Singing, Basiani, and broadcast on Japanese Radio ‘Ottava’,” the National Wine Agency told us. There are multiple important and fas- cinating events set to be carried out within the scope of the project, which will contribute to the popularization of Georgian wine and gastronomy, as well as goods of local production.

THE SCHEDULE FOR UPCOMING EVENTS IS PRESENTED BELOW: April 3 – Renowned British journalist, country, with its interesting and eclectic wine writer and columnist of Decanter BY KETEVAN KVARATSKHELIYA history and culture, to the Japanese public magazine Andrew Jefford will give a and thousands of other travelers. ‘Georgia lecture-seminar on wine production and – Homeland of Wine’ also aims to obtain its uniqueness at the TMMT Hall, which eorgia is currently success- fruitful outcomes in the economic sector, will be attended by experts in the fi eld. fully presenting its wines as it allows Georgian wine enterprises to April 11 – The Georgian National Tour- to a wide audience in one augment their sales locally, as well as abroad. ism Administration will hold a presen- of the most developed, The participants are given an opportunity tation titled ‘Wine Route’. dynamic and prospective to arrange meetings and negotiate future April 13 – A degustation-seminar will countries-G Japan, within the scope of the business with foreign companies. The pro- be led by the prominent Japanese wine project ‘Georgia – Homeland of Wine’. ject may also help the development of tour- expert Kenichi Ohashi on the theme The latest exhibition in the project was ism in Georgia by raising the interest of ‘Georgia – Homeland of Wine’. launched on March 10 at the huge exhibi- foreigners in Georgia. April 21 – The ‘Georgian Supra’ (Geor- tion center Terrada Warehouse in Tokyo, GT contacted the representatives of gian feast) will be presented by writer Japan. The Grand Opening ceremony the National Wine Agency, one of the Zurab Karumidze. took place on March 15, seeing the gov- organizers of ‘Georgia – Homeland of The project ‘Georgia – Homeland of ernment delegation of Georgia, multiple Wine,’ to fi nd out how the Tokyo exhibi- Wine’ is implemented by the Ministry wine companies, representatives of the tion is going. of Environment Protection and Agricul- media sector and other involved parties “A lot of interest has been shown by ture of Georgia and the National Intel- participating in the celebration. The exhi- Japanese media so far. The Minister of lectual Property Center of Georgia ‘SAK- bition will last until May 7. Environmental Protection and Agricul- PATENTI’, with the support of the The major aim of the project is to promote ture of Georgia, Levan Davitashvili, and National Museum, National Wine Agency the unique Georgian wine and present the the Chair of the project David Tke- and Association ‘Georgian Wine’. ‘EMBRACE Tsalka’: New EU Project

support smallholders, entrepreneurs, rural economies and communities,” BY KETEVAN KVARATSKHELIYA women, youth and other local actors stated the Head of CENN, Nana Janashia. by improving access to knowledge and Tsalka Local Action Group (LAG) and innovation, introducing best practices, Local Development Strategy for the he European Union actively creating public-private partnerships Tsalka Municipality are set to be supports the rural devel- (PPPs) and business linkages, and launched within the scope of the pro- opment in various regions generating new employment by utiliz- ject, which will outline the priorities of Georgia through the ing the development potential of the and the most vulnerable members of European Neighborhood area. the communities, and allocate relevant ProgramT for Agriculture and Rural “Our goal with the EMBRACE Tsalka fi nancial support. Development (ENPARD). One of the project is to reduce rural poverty and Tsalka is a municipality with 30 com- new projects, worth EUR 2.4 million improve living conditions in the munic- munities comprised of 43 villages and and called ‘EMBRACE Tsalka’ was pre- ipality, addressing economic, social, and Tsalka town, where agriculture repre- sented by the EU and its partner organ- environmental concerns by improving sents the major economic activity. ization CENN in the multi-ethnic Tsalka agricultural competitiveness, promot- Since 2013, ENPARD has implemented Municipality of Georgia on March 19. ing sustainable management of natural various successful projects with a total The major aim of the initiative is to resources, and building climate-resilient cost of EUR 179.5 million. Image source: enpard.ge Bakhtadze Announces New Promises for Education Reform Continued from page 1 Georgia as a hub of education and sci- PISA report from 2015. new promise to increase education Bakhtadze also referenced the “Edu- ence in the region, which is our mis- “We face two main challenges - pov- spending to 6% by 2022. He also empha- cation Equality Act,” a new law aimed Another point of emphasis is European sion,” explained Bakhtadze. erty and occupation,” said Bakhtadze, sized the importance of private sector to ensure that “the current and future standards and integration with the The Prime Minister tied the ambitious marking these as a barrier to Georgia’s involvement, hoping that the increase governments of Georgia…keep invest- European education system. The gov- reform plan to what he called Georgia’s historic aims and sustainably growth. in spending will motivate private com- ments this high fl owing into the educa- ernment has been working to integrate centuries’-old fi ght for “freedom, pres- He continued, “Education is the short- panies to match investments in their tion sector and steadily increasing it more European standards into the Geor- ervation of identity, and building a strong est way…from poverty to freedom. This future workforces. “As a result,” every single year.” The Equality Act gian curriculum, and now promises that Georgian state.” The government’s top is not just a reform, it is a national idea Bakhtadze prophesized, “education will locks in governments for the next dec- certifi cates issued by vocational educa- priority must be education, he insisted, and the boldest national project since become a dominant sector in the econ- ade to allocate at least a quarter of their tion and training centers in Georgia will “this is the only right vision to ensure the day of our independence, which omy.” annual budgets for education. “In the be accepted in Europe. sustainable development.” should ensure Georgia will be added to GEL 1.6 billion ($600 mln) has been near future we will submit a relevant “It means that the young people will Currently, the Georgian public educa- the list of countries with developed allocated for education in the 2019 initiative to Parliament on the Educa- be able to be employed in Europe after tion system is “among the worst in the economies. The formula for the success budget, a signifi cant increase from 2012, tion Equality Act,” promised Bakhtadze. graduating from vocational educational world,” wrote Tbilisi-based economist of leading economies of the world is Bakhtadze notes, when the education The Prime Minister insisted that the institutions [in Georgia]. The large-scale Eric Livny in a recent blog post for that the education sector is the main budget was just GEL 600 million ($223.5 long-term, progressively compounding reform means that our higher education Tbilnomics and GEORGIA TODAY. driving force. In the 21st century, if you mln). For 2020, the government is com- nature of education means that consist- institutions will be represented in the International education test PISA ranked do not spend 10-11% of your GDP on mitting GEL 2 billion ($745 mln), GEL ently growing investments are critical world’s top rankings, we will have the Georgia 60th in science, 62nd in read- education, it will be diffi cult to com- 2.5 billion ($931 mln) in 2021, and GEL to the sector’s health and success as the most innovative research centers, labo- ing and 57th in mathematics, out of 72 pete.” 3.4 billion ($1.27 bln) in 2022 – a quarter basis of Georgia’s economic develop- ratories, and we will be able to establish countries included in the most recent The Prime Minister repeated his bold of the annual budget. ment. GEORGIA TODAY 4 POLITICS MARCH 22 - 25, 2019 Kazakh Leader Goes, But His Legacy Remains he worked from 1994 to 1999 and 2003 BY EMIL AVDALIANI to 2007 as Nazarbayev’s foreign minister. The succession process is also inter- esting in terms of geopolitics of the azakhstan’s long-ruling Central Asian region as Kazakhstan is a president Nursultan Naz- major oil and natural gas producing and arbayaev has resigned and exporting state. Situated between Russia placed as an acting ruler and China, the country under Nazarbayev his close associate Kassym- has successfully managed to balance KJomart Tokayev. The event was hailed between Russia and China, as well as by many as unexpected and potentially serve as a transit state for US and NATO troublesome for the stability of the Cen- forces in Afghanistan. tral Asian state. The northern part of Kazakhstan has However, there were signs prior to the a sizable, although declining, Russian resignation suggesting that Nazarbayev population which causes concerns for had been preparing for a power transi- the Kazakh leadership. Sharing a long tion for some time. Moreover, the power border with Russia, Kazakhstan has been transition, although a diffi cult process wary of Russian moves in Georgia and in itself, is unlikely to cause disturbances particularly Ukraine. For the Kazakh as Nazarbayev will still hold a number leadership, the geopolitical reality is that, of important powers. being far from European states or the Nazarbayev, the son of a shepherd, US, any confrontation with Russia would Image source: Akorda press service became a rising star in Soviet politics in be particularly damaging for Kazakhstan. the 1980s, a period when the Soviet related to economic issues) to the coun- seen in 2016 when Islam Karimov died, real power, will still be in charge behind China might serve as a balancing power Union’s politics revolved around the try’s parliament. This year, Nazarbayev with many fearing the government might the scenes when it comes to major for- and the future Kazakh leadership should ruling class born in the pre-communist consulted the country’s Constitutional experience internal troubles. The pro- eign and internal policy issues. play a cautious game between the two revolution era. In a way, Nazarbayaev Council to clarify what powers he would cess turned out to be smooth. The man who would replace the 78-year- big states amid increasing world disor- was a new generation ruler, very similar retain should he announce his resignation. In Kazakhstan too, Nazarbayev will do old leader is Tokayev, born into an elite der. to what Georgia had under Eduard She- In addition, there were multiple rumors everything for the process to be effec- Soviet family and the son of an eminent Still, despite this diffi cult geopolitical vardnadze in the 1970s-early 1980s. and smaller scale shifts and changes which tive and political factions and various writer and war hero. Tokayev was a situation, the country’s leadership has Nazarbayev's resignation formally trig- indicated that a presidential succession elites to cooperate. He will continue to graduate of the prestigious State managed successfully and is likely to gers a succession process, but preparations would take place in the near future. serve as Chairman of the National Secu- Institute of International Relations and continue in the same vein as the new were already ongoing for months if not Although the succession process is not rity Council and head of the ruling Nur in the 1970s became a career diplomat president is a part of the existing ruling years. In 2017, Nazarbayev devolved some always smooth, in the neighboring Otan party. This means that the former in the Soviet foreign service. Later on, elite with probably much the same geo- of the presidential powers (primarily Uzbekistan similar happenings were president, through his prestige and some following Kazakhstan’s independence, political understanding of world affairs. The Jack Shepherd Case: Two Sides Tell Their Stories appealed at the Supreme Court. If the towards this person is that he is a mon- EXCLUSIVE BY VAZHA TAVBERIDZE Supreme Court were to stick to the orig- ster, a murderer, the “Speedboat Killer,” inal decision, then it is up to the Minister as they so gleefully christened him. And of Justice to take a slightly different this is a society his own son has to grow rit Jack Shepherd, a fugitive approach: the Minister can override the up in, being led to believe that his father convicted for manslaughter, court’s decision if it says that the person was a monster and an immoral murderer. could be sent back to Britain is to be extradited, but must make this This torrent of abuse is accompanied by within eight days to serve his decision based on state interests. This is threats and sabotage – for example, his six-year prison sentence, the part a legal, part a political decision, where family and we have been subject of hate- BBritish media reports. aspects like human rights, overall human- mail and abuse from anonymous persons “The web designer, 31, will appear at a itarian standards, state security, etc. come over the last week. We have heard Jack’s court in the Georgian capital Tbilisi by into play. But if the court were to deny life will be turned into “a living hell,” March 28 for a hearing at which prosecu- the extradition request, then the Minister while selective reporting by some media tors will demand his extradition.” – wrote cannot override it. Although we deem outlets indicate that there are some fi nan- the Daily Mail newspaper. this very unlikely as this case satisfi es cial leverages and infl uences at play. Who’s GEORGIA TODAY quizzed both sides every legal grounds for extradition: we to argue that Jack wouldn’t be subjected of the case for further information on don’t see a problem from a human rights to constant psychological terror in prison? the upcoming hearing. perspective, the committed crime is pun- Why hasn’t our request to assess his psy- ishable in Georgia, nor is statutory limi- chological state been responded to? We IRAKLI CHILINGARASHVILI, tation an issue. So we expect the court haven’t received full documentation HEAD OF THE INTERNATIONAL will satisfy our request and very soon, regarding his safety and the time the UK DEPARTMENT OF THE hopefully by the end of this month, we’ll side has given us is less than the bare PROSECUTORS OFFICE have a court case which we believe we minimum. And before somebody mocks OF GEORGIA: can handle successfully. the notion that he might be safer here We received the materials necessary for than in the UK, why don’t they take a long the extradition procedure at the beginning MARIAM KUBLASHVILI, JACK hard look at the criminal situation in of March. After examining and studying SHEPHERDS LAWYER: Britain? I could name numerous cases of the materials, the next step is a court trial We have received the necessary materi- murder where the disposition towards where we will raise the issue of eligibility als and at this moment we’re developing the culprit was far more benevolent – in of extradition for Mr. Shepherd. Subse- our strategy. We will be ready for both most cases, never did a British govern- quently, the court will consider the legal alternatives: whether Jack opts to go or ment offi cial deem it necessary to deliver matters pertaining to this issue, whether chooses to stay. However, I can tell you a televised speech demanding punish- there is suffi cient legal ground for extradi- at this point that while we, the Defense, ment and extradition just to appease the tion, whether the act committed is pun- are able to delay the process, it’s ultimately masses. In Jack’s case, it happened. This ishable by Georgian law, whether the Jack’s decision. He should have time to case has acquired a distinctly political Statute of Limitations is applicable, and think about the situation, to analyze it layer to it, with Jack being a bargaining so on. And at the fi nal stage, a decision and then we’ll act accordingly. I am per- chip in relations between two countries. will be made by the Minister of Justice. sonally not sure he would be safe from It’s the fi rst time Britain has ever asked At this point, we have notifi ed the dangers in the UK, that he won’t be sub- Georgia for a favor, something our coun- Defense about the request we received, jected to psychological abuse. We are try might fi nd so tempting that it will lead ple will believe this fi ction, and so it goes. Jack Shepherd has been turned into an however, the Constitution dictates a 10-day talking about a person who never intended them to overlook the details of the case. And all this at the cost of a living person’s animal by the state and the media, and is period to notify the Defense. The case for Charlotte Brown to die, and barely And why not? Politicians will be happy, rights and feelings. I believe that this kind being treated not as a human, but an ani- will be considered at the Court of First escaped with his own life after that tragic media will happily continue gloating and of emotional pressure was to blame for mal that is being sold at auction, it seems. Instance, decisions of which can be accident. And the attitude of society selling their sensationalized fi ction, peo- the initial verdict that the jury made, too. All in the name of twisted morality. GEORGIA TODAY MARCH 22 - 25, 2019 POLITICS 5 Parliament Approves Draft Law on Selection of Judges

rights, and this statistic data is not just a mere fi g- BY THEA MORRISON ure but implies thousands of people whose rights are duly protected today by the independent Court,” he said. he Parliament of Georgia on Wednes- The Speaker’s bill was criticized by the opposi- day approved with the fi rst reading tion parties, who claim that the draft leaves power the draft law on Common Courts, with to the “clan” within the judiciary system. 89 MPs for and 31 against. Roman Gotsiridze, from the United National The Draft was initiated by the Speaker Movement, stated that the draft is an attempt to Tof Parliament and ruling Geor- restructure the justice system the way in a way that gian Dream (GD) MPs: , Mamuka serves the interests of the informal ruler of the Mdinaradze, Anri Okhanashvili, Giorgi Kakhiani, country, referring to the founder and the Chair of Davit Matikashvili and Guram Macharshvili. GD, . The amendments set procedures and criteria for In addition, European Georgia member Otar the selection of the candidates for the posts of Kakhidze said that the parliamentary majority is Supreme Court Judge, the qualifi cation require- well aware that “the justice system is in the hands ments of judges and the procedure for nominating of the clan, but they want to support them.” candidates, selected by the High Council of Justice, Public Defender Nino Lomjaria says the draft law to Parliament. prepared by the Chairman of the Parliament on A second project was also submitted to Parlia- the selection of the Supreme Court judges cannot ment, prepared by MP Eka Beselia, who quit the Image source: parliament.ge respond to the existing challenges. ruling party after a disagreement and corrupt.” Before voting for the draft on March 20, Kobakh- She explained that criteria and procedures should regarding the selection criteria of judges. Beselia Parliament Speaker Irakli Kobakhidze then said idze addressed the MPs and called on them to vote not only be formal but should be able to substan- demanded the suspension of lifetime tenure for the discussions on the issue had been postponed for his bill. tially change the practice of decision-making under judges but her initiative was not supported by a until spring, adding a working group would be set Speaking on behalf of the Majority, the Speaker the High Council of Justice and ensure fairness. suffi cient number of MPs. up from the representatives of various sectors, touched upon the working process and the princi- The Ombudsman considers that the following Co-authors of Beselia’s project are MPs Levan which would defi ne some additional criteria regard- ples serving the basis for development of the bill. changes should be made to the draft law submitted Gogichaishvili, Zviad Kvachantiradze, Gedevan ing the selection process of the judges. He underlined that the bill authored by the ruling by the Parliament Speaker: criteria, secret ballot, Popkhadze, Beka Natsvlishvili, Irma Inashvili, Giorgi The working group was set but it was later left party is the only draft not in confrontation with for Parliament to ensure the obligation of an open Lomia, Gela Mikadze, Emzar Kvitsiani, Ada Mar- by the NGOs, which stressed the format did not the Constitution. ballot at the legislative level, in addition, the con- shania, Nato Chkheidze, Gia Zhorzholiani and serve as a means for discussing genuine legislative The Speaker added that various parties con- fl ict of interests and the issues related to the num- Mirian Tsiklauri. changes to ensure a merit-based approach to the cerned were engaged in development of the bill ber of voters and candidates. The issue became controversial after the High selection process and its transparent and impartial and the ruling party had done its best to share “In response to these challenges, it is very impor- Council of Justice (HCOJ) nominated 10 candidate conduct. every recommendation within the Constitutional tant to adopt relevant legislation to improve the judges for the Supreme Court of Georgia for life “The unequivocal position of the Speaker during frame. process, to increase trust in the decisions of the tenure. The list was rejected by the non-judge the working meeting made it clear that he does not “We shall keep our achievement and will never Council of Justice… We have an extraordinary members of the HCOJ, NGOs and some members intend to come up with a draft that would preclude allow for political revenge against the judicial sys- situation and, accordingly, we have to fi nd a way of the majority, who claimed that the presented the unilateral nomination of Supreme Court judge tem by a political force previously successfully out quickly," said Lomjaria, adding that they should judges had been working during the previous gov- candidates by the dominant clan of the judiciary,” controlling the judicial authority… An independent inform the Venice Commission and the OSCE about ernment and had the reputation of being “biased the third sector claimed. judiciary serves only one goal: protection of human the recent developments. Azerbaijan Releases 52 Political Prisoners for Novruz Amnesty

BY AMY JONES

n March 17, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev pardoned almost 400 prisoners as part of an amnesty to mark the Novruz holiday. Various human rights organizations consider 52O of those released to be political prisoners. It has become a tradition in Azerbaijan to pardon prisoners as part of the Novruz holiday celebra- tions. However, the number of political prisoners this year was much higher compared to previous years. Local human rights groups reported that only 12 political prisoners were pardoned during the last amnesty in May 2018. Among those released are Giyas Ibrahimov, a youth activist who was sentenced to a 10 year term Image source: Musavat in 2016, two deputy chairpersons of the opposition However, government supporters deny claims People’s Front Party of Azerbaijan, youth group that the government is weakening: “The President members who had been sentenced to 10 years in did not release the political prisoners because his prison for graffi ting a statue of the former Azer- power has weakened,” wrote Eynulla Fatyullayev, baijani president Heydar Aliyev, journalists such editor of the news website Haqqin. “On the con- as Fikret Faramazoglu, religious activists from the trary, his power is as strong as ever.” Naradaran Shia stronghold, and the former minis- Fatyullayev believes that the release of political ter of health who has been in prison for 12 years. prisoners is a victory over more conservative forces The unprecedented mass pardoning is being in the government and part of a “new course toward interpreted in various ways. Some commentators economic liberalization” implemented by Aliyev believe that it follows internal and international since the beginning of the year. pressure. Azerbaijan is negotiating a new compre- Nonetheless, the pardons have been criticized as hensive bilateral agreement with the European skin-deep and not enough. The son of Eldar Sabi- Union and upcoming negotiations are scheduled roghlu, a founding member of the ruling New for April 4. The EU has pressured Azerbaijan to Azerbaijan Party Rufat Safarov, who was released improve human rights in the country, including by on March 17, told OC Media that although those releasing political prisoners. who were freed are happy to be released, it’s not The EU released a statement hailing the move a enough “because there are still political prisoners ‘welcome step’ whilst adding that it ‘expects further in jail.” similar steps will follow in future, in line with Azer- “In order to free the other political prisoners, baijan’s international commitments.’ society must continue an active struggle,” he con- Azerbaijan is in the grip of an economic crisis, tinued. growing public discontent and internal isolation A local human rights group the ‘Center for the which are forcing the government’s hand, states Protection of Political Prisoners’ believes 137 peo- Arastun Orujlu, a political commentator. “The sys- ple to still be imprisoned, whilst other groups esti- tematic crisis in Azerbaijan and social and economic mate this number to be 127. Some commentators tensions in the country have reached a peak,” he believe that the decision to release political pris- told Eurasianet. oners will simply make way for new ones. GEORGIA TODAY 6 POLITICS MARCH 22 - 25, 2019 Georgia’s Media Muckrakers

OP-ED BY NUGZAR B. RUHADZE

uphemistically speaking, muck-raking is investigative journalism, something which has become very trendy in Georgia of late. We haven’t Einvented anything new in journalism, especially in television journalism, in the last 30 years: our TV startups of the bygone 80s and 90s just made carbon copies of Western electronic media, be it talk show, sitcom, soap , reality, action, hard talk, or the style and content of news presentation, except sports, of course – this genre is still lingering in soviet era dullness and ennui, with glum- faced, languid and morose anchors appearing on screen several times a day. The modus operandi of muck-rakers (let’s conventionally call them the reform- minded braves of mass media) contains attacks on recognized institutions and Image source: thinglink.com well-known personalities. Although they move, constituting political corruption the reality so cunningly and dexterously On the other hand, rendering to Caesar system’ which guarantees employment have wide audiences of watchers or lis- of a considerable caliber and tightly inter- that a regular naïve watcher or listener the things that are Caesar's, and to God based on the ability to deliver a quality teners, their work still leaves a certain twined with the alleged crook’s offi cial has no way to discern the difference the things that are God's, I am ready to job rather than using political connec- amount of doubt and suspicion to digest obligations. But a talented and experi- between the stretch and the genuine fact. admit that there are investigative jour- tions. What does muck-raking have to post factum. The prerequisite for the enced muck-raker has the professional Muck-raking is an organic part of the nalists out there who are utterly inde- do with this? The involvement is direct: inception and further burgeoning of muck- skill to make something out of nothing, political machine. Actually, without a pendent, doing their job very honestly honest professionals are less prone to raking, an attribute of the post-soviet era, thus blowing the subject of investigation political machine running at full capac- and serving the purpose to the best go corrupt compared to the cadres who included accelerated public activism and out of proportion, especially if the job is ity, a muck-raker becomes ineffective as advantage of the nation, but nobody on have sneaked into their cushy jobs with an inevitable social, political, economic done by an investigative journalist in favor a journalist because the muck-raking earth has counted the number of good the help of powerful big bugs protecting and environmental reform severely, but of a certain political party. ideas and attitudes are generated in the guys and bad guys in the muck-raking their protégés’ vulnerable souls and bod- not very methodically, executed across Democracy, whether direct or repre- process of fulltime operation of said echelons of ladies and gentlemen of the ies. Muck-rakers know for months and the entire territory of the former USSR, sentative, is a real haven for muck-rakers political machine. For the sake of saving press. even years in advance what animals their including Georgia, with the intention of because they feel free to pounce on any his or her thick skin, a muck-raker, espe- One of the reasons for the proliferation potential prey might be, and they work making drastic alterations to soviet polit- potential victim with ease and a clear cially in an evolving political culture like of muck-raking might very well be the on their sneaky projects with diligence ical culture and social life. conscience, using verbal manipulation ours, needs some upper-hand patronage deplorable practice of giving privilege and deliberation. They sure do, because The most scrumptious quarry for a and making conclusions effortlessly. But to prop up the talent fi nancially, give the to the unwelcome ‘spoils system’ in they are regular humans who want to muck-raker happens to be a governmen- muck-rakers try not to lie too fl agrantly; necessary encouragement and to sup- politics, providing jobs to buffs, friends be fed and clad as anybody else in our tal offi ceholder caught in some crooked they have their own ways of obfuscating port ideologically. and relatives over the laudable ‘merit sinful world. GEORGIA TODAY MARCH 22 - 25, 2019 POLITICS 7 On Garibashvili’s Return have been forgotten and the Garibashvili- OP-ED BY ZAZA JGARKAVA Ivanishvili relationship is to begin afresh. Now, everything depends on Garibash- vili: his new post is as important as the ormer Prime Minister Irakli former, as he needs to reanimate the Garibashvili is returning, or, governmental party and ensure their to be more precise, has been triumph in the 2020 parliamentary elec- brought back into big politics. tions. Brought back by the one who Whether GD can be reanimated is a madeF him leave four years ago. The very different topic, as today the situation is fi rst comments suggested that Ivanish- mixed up to the point where we are wit- vili’s decision was a surprise to both the nessing radical changes almost daily. governmental party and Garibashvili Past practices suggest that as we get himself. Who would have imagined such closer to the elections, this will further a twist, when four years ago the ex-PM exacerbate. As such, a lot will depend not only resigned from his post, but also on Garibashvili, whose very fi rst mission left politics and even Ivanishvili’s team. is surely to neutralize Kaladze’s camp in Four years ago, Garibashvili became the party. aware that he had to leave when was It is obvious that lately, since Garib- getting ready to address the country in ashvili’s return, the Mayor of Tbilisi has his New Year’s speech: leave his post been quiet and he has not been seen to and Ivanishvili’s team. We learned this be as actively participating in inner party from the content of his speech, in which developments; events of major impor- the most important part was not what tance have been left beyond his com- the PM told the people, but rather what ment, for instance, Justice Minister Tsu- he did not. We remember his face and lukiani’s presence or withdrawal from confounded expression, when instead the Georgian Dream, as well as the issue Image source: tabula.ge of thanking Ivanishvili, who had intro- of impeachment of the Head of Parlia- there are other ideas circulating too. point can be further argued, as he has will bring a “second breath” to the party duced him to big politics and made him ment Irakli Kobakhidze. Such “trivial” Former GD supporter, political analyst even hired a company that will work on before the elections. However, at the the fi rst politician of the country, or events wouldn’t have been left unnoticed Archil Gamzardia thinks that most likely bringing new faces into the party by the moment, it is the National Movement Georgian Dream, which made a 33-year- by the sharp eye of Kaladze in a normal Kobakhidze will be the one facing prob- time the 2020 election campaign begins. that seems to be having the privileges, old unknown’s triumph possible, he setting. lems, because Georgian Dream needs But who the newbies would be substi- because whether positive or not, such a thanked his wife, Nanuka Tamazashvili. Political expert Ghia Nodia believes Kaladze’s persona more. Garibashvili tuting will only be clear in future. One move puts doubt on the stability of the This can be read as Garibashvili’s reac- that Garibashvili’s return is connected should be seen as a rival to Kobakhidze thing for sure, though: the governmental government. And this “doubted bureau- tion or his answer to Ivanishvili at the with “neutralizing” either Kaladze or rather than Kaladze, then. As for the party is divided into the camps of Kaladze, cracy” will not be favorable for the GD time. Kobakhidze; however, as the latter has political passivity of the latter, Gamzardia Kobakhidze, Beselia, Chugoshvili and party in the elections. Hence, both with Upon returning to politics, Garibashvili some support from Ivanishvili, most thinks that it is due to him being busy Ivanishvili himself. or without Garibashvili, Ivanishvili is did not mention his wife. This time, he probably it would mean a decline for with the responsibilities of majorship, Exactly through the selection of the still facing the dilemma of how to handle thanked Ivanishvili, who, at the most Kaladze. Nodia also thinks that this is which doesn’t leave enough time for fi ttest within these groups will the new the Georgian Dream. He wants to have crucial moment, trusted him to lead the the very reason for Kaladze’s silence, as political activities. Georgian Dream be comprised, which trustworthy people around him, but for Georgian Dream. It is a big responsibil- he “must be afraid of” something, trying The fact that Garibashvili’s return is is why Garibashvili was reintroduced by now, he is surrounded by average trai- ity and it seems that the former distresses to keep out of Ivanishvili’s sight. But aimed at creating a new political center the billionaire. Some believe that this tors.

SOCIETY Towards a More Sustainable Georgia nesses here. One is a Georgian cosmetic work correctly, because the government EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW BY startup called ‘Sapovnela’ which makes is not controlling it. GABRIELLE COLCHEN natural cosmetics from herbs and local Also, plastic bags will soon be prohib- goat milk. The second one is called ited, to be replaced with paper bags. ‘Zero Effect,’ a vegan/vegetarian café The problem is that only the thinner arolína Nováková is from and store whose goal is to avoid pro- ones are prohibited. So, they will prob- the Czech Republic and is ducing waste. They sell reusable items ably be replaced by thicker plastic bags. doing a one-year European and non-plastic recipients. The third In some stores people are charged 0.20 Voluntary Service (EVS) one is a company called ‘Green Gift,’ Tetri for plastic bags, but this is a ridic- project for the Interna- which provides offi ces with wooden ulous fee. tionalK Center for Peace Integration boxes designed to collect paper. After- As for eco-labels, they enable people (ICPI) in Tbilisi. She has university wards, the paper is recycled and con- to recognize how eco or ethical friendly degrees in Marketing from the Tomas verted into very nice paper gifts. a product or service is. Labels are a Bata University, Czech Republic, and Fabrika hostel also has recycling bins measurement of environmental impact, in Management from the Saint-Peters- and often hosts events linked to sustain- and companies can fi nd them useful, burg University. Since she came to ability. especially in a competitive market. Georgia in November last year, she has Photo Source: http://ytsnepal.org been organizing events to inform peo- WHAT INTEREST WOULD WHAT ARE YOUR HOPES ple on how to be more sustainable in is the biggest one, there is a lack of paper, plastics, Tetra packages, Bio trash, GEORGIAN COMPANIES FOR GEORGIA’S FUTURE? everyday life and on sustainable ways awareness in Georgian communities. batteries, and more. Bins are almost GAIN BY BECOMING MORE I see that Georgia is on the right path, of doing business. GEORGIA TODAY People are not educated on these sub- always just 10 minutes away. Here, I SUSTAINABLE OR ‘GREENER’? and I already see some progress in the had the chance to meet her. jects and that’s why they tend to not have to take a 30-minute journey on This is a market that is still to be con- cities, but it is a long-distance run. Some care about them. public transport to get to my nearest quered in Georgia. For example, instead NGOs and private companies are eco WHAT SPECIFIC CHALLENGES recycling bin. of exporting all the trash out of Georgia, concerned and, step by step, are imple- LINKED TO ENVIRONMENT THEN YOUR MAIN GOAL In the Czech Republic, customers have companies could try to start recycling menting a Corporate Social Responsi- AND SUSTAINABILITY HAVE IS EDUCATION? to pay for paper bags in the supermar- some here. It could contribute to reduc- bility strategy in their business. I think YOU SEEN IN GEORGIA? By holding these sustainable meetings, ket and people usually bring their own ing unemployment in Georgia. that it is just a matter of time and, above Well quite a lot, unfortunately. There I want to educate Georgians about envi- fabric bags. Plastic bags are slowly dis- Besides, being sustainable is becom- all, of education. is no system or legislation that guides ronmental and social issues through appearing. Zero packaging shops are ing trendy, so being an eco-friendly I really want more people to come to people to be more environmentally different topics, and through case stud- quite popular, and customers come with company would defi nitely entice people these sustainable meetings in Mediathek friendly. First, I noticed that there is a ies. I try to make it interactive so that their own packaging: glass jars, paper and arouse their interest in your com- library: everyone is welcomed, we need lack of bins in the streets and in public people engage with the topic and think boxes, fabric, paper bags, etc., and they pany. The governmental sector and to spread the word! parks, as well as national parks. There critically. It is not just people coming put what they buy in their ecofriendly foreign investors can help this process. is no sign which says, ‘Do not drop lit- to listen but rather to discuss and share vessels. Moreover, some online grocery Future meetings are listed below. They ter.’ There are also too few recycling ideas and experiences. e-shops now deliver their products only YOUR LAST EVENT WAS ON are often in English, but some Georgian bins. I want people, and especially youth, in paper bags. WEDNESDAY. TELL US ABOUT IT. speakers do their talks in Georgian: The second big challenge I see is to have at least a basic knowledge of Finally, the public transport system is The focus was on legislation. Georgia 03.04.19: Smart electronic devices and transportation. There are many old cars what sustainability means. different. In many Czech cities, I can lacks standards in many areas of legis- apps, in Mediathek Kikvidze Park in Georgia which produce more carbon get almost anywhere without using a lation. For instance, in architecture, 17.04.19: Sustainable tourism and green hydrate than new ones, plus the number WHAT DIFFERENCES DO car, and I know what I'm talking about when a designer wants to build a ‘green’ hotel, in Mediathek Kikvidze Park of cars is incredibly high. I heard that YOU SEE BETWEEN THE because I don't drive. Car and bike shar- building, there is no defi nition and no 01.15.19: Sustainable materials, in this year, Tbilisi City Hall will launch CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED ing systems are also becoming popular. specifi c and concrete standard which Mediathek Kikvidze Park an electric car sharing system. It’s a nice HERE IN GEORGIA AND IN describes what is a ‘green building’ is. 15.05.19: Circular economy and sustain- try, but in my opinion, to reach visible THE CZECH REPUBLIC? DO YOU HAVE EXAMPLES Related to waste management, I know ability, in Mediathek Kikvidze Park impact, it must go hand-in-hand with In the Czech Republic, there is a more OF GEORGIAN COMPANIES that in 2017, Georgia introduced a new 29.05.19 Circular economy, in Czech reducing the number of old cars in the developed waste system. Every small THAT ARE EFFECTIVELY regulation which prohibits dumping Republic in Vake Park city, perhaps limited by a law. housing estate, village and city has recy- SUSTAINABLE? waste in the streets, which can incur 12.06.19: Sustainability in the food As a third challenge, and I assume it cling bins. We recycle aluminum, glass, I know about three sustainable busi- fi nes. However, this regulation does not industry, in Mediathek Kikvidze Park GEORGIA TODAY 8 SOCIETY MARCH 22 - 25, 2019 Budding Vazhas?: Etseri, Svaneti Beautiful chamois in the forest BLOG BY TONY HANMER Nothing more lovely than Etseri My Svaneti is my homeland. - Saba Murghvliani couple of weeks ago, my wife came home from Spring school quite excited. Now is March “Dearo, you wouldn’t Congratulations to the mothers believe what those 8th- who take care of us Agrade kids have written!” she said. Appar- and put their hope in us. ently, there was the usual Women’s/ - Oto Gerliani Mothers’ Day after-school event, in which each class is expected to participate with I also want to take this moment to say poetry and other media extolling the that there are really only two things one virtues of the female fi gures in their lives. needs to do to be and grow as a writer, Of which virtues there are many. according to Stephen King in his book Some of the pupils, however, had penned On Writing: read a lot and write a lot. their own verses instead of going the That’s it. I have the privilege of being able easy route of memorizing and reading to write something regularly for a news- from the many centuries of classics of paper; but this is merely an extension and Georgian literature. Of these there are formalization of a lifelong habit of fi lling also astonishingly many, some of the notebooks, begun when I was in my fi rst writers known on a fi rst-name basis, so year of elementary school in Rhodesia, famous, so extolled are they. Like Vazha some time after I began reading and long (-Pshavela), for example. before we had a TV in the house. I wish Now, I blanch at the thought of trans- these youngsters to be bitten and smitten lating poetry from one language into by the writer’s bug, and for some of them any other, even with the help of a native too to make its possibly infi nite variety a speaker. It must be the pinnacle of the part of their life’s work and pleasure. No translator’s art. Look at the several one knows where or when the next genius attempted English versions of Rustave- Georgian writer will spring up, but when li’s masterpiece over more than a cen- she or he becomes known, even in poten- tury. How much of the rhyme and rhythm lish to compare. If you want to be known Untitled Not standing with each other in trouble, tial, the best we can do is to encourage do you attempt to keep, especially from as a serious student of the Georgian When did Georgia bow her head to her putting each other down, and then get right out of the way! a national treasure of a poem which has language and culture, this is at the top enemy?! Defi cit of loving kindness, giving full both, the rhymes going up to SIX last of your list. When did Georgia make a road for her rein to sensuality. Tony Hanmer has lived in Georgia since 1999, syllables of its lines? Or do you go for As a non-professional in this arcane enemy?! - Saba Gurchiani in Svaneti since 2007, and been a weekly greatest understanding, which suggests art, aided greatly by my dear wife, my When did Georgia exchange her dignity?! writer for GT since early 2011. He runs the abandoning poetry altogether for prose? method with these new works will be to Worry, trouble and pain to add up. Etseri “Svaneti Renaissance” Facebook group, now Thorny, to say the least. The Knight in attempt maximum clarity at the expense Going to Etseri, again my ancestors’ with nearly 2000 members, at www.facebook. the Panther Skin has also been trans- of greatest beauty or rhythmic structure. Now it’s a different era, wickedness in voices are calling com/groups/SvanetiRenaissance/ lated into many world languages, despite Special thanks to Natia Tsindeliani, their fashion, I won’t abandon my motherland, but if He and his wife also run their own guest house its complexity, and we are blessed to teacher, for stirring Forgetting of friendship and befriending I go, I’ll return. in Etseri: have more than one such effort in Eng- up the muse! More, please! hatred, On the slopes, mountain goats climb, www.facebook.com/hanmer.house.svaneti Steady Number of Students from Georgia at UK Universities

from all over the world. Regarding the undergraduate courses while 115 were ing university in Northern Ireland, the According to offi cial records, the BY ELLA WOREHEAD offi cial enrollment statistics, it can seeking a postgraduate degree. Most statistics read. following universities in the UK had easily be concluded that students from of the postgraduate students were the highest number of Georgian stu- Georgia are also highly interested in attending taught study programs (100 WHICH UNIVERSITIES DO dents: uring the 2017/18 academic seeking higher education in the UK. students as compared to 10 enrolled in GEORGIAN STUDENTS • The University of Westminster – 20 year, there were 215 stu- According to an offi cial statistical research degree programs). PREFER MOST? • City University of London -10 dents from Georgia stud- report provided by the Higher Educa- Within the United Kingdom, England There are a large number of accredited • The University of Glasgow - 10 ying in the UK, pretty tion Statistics Agency in UK about proved the most popular study choice universities in the UK providing pro- • King’s College London – 10 much the same as three university enrollment, it is noted that for higher education, with 180 students spective international students with a • London School of Economics and Dyears ago, when UK universities counted the number of Georgian students has from Georgia studying at universities wide range of options for their aca- Political Sciences – 10 225 Georgian students, says Studying- remained steady over the years. in England last year, while universities demic careers. However, based on offi - • The University of Oxford – 10 in-UK.org. Of the total number of Georgian stu- in Scotland accommodated 25 Georgian cial statistics, only a few have a share • Queen Mary University of London The UK is a very popular study des- dents studying in UK as of the last students and Welsh universities fi ve. in the total number of students from – 10 tination, attracting ambitious students academic year, 100 were attending There was no Georgian student attend- Georgia. • University College London – 10

Image source: blog.westminster.ac.uk GEORGIA TODAY MARCH 22 - 25, 2019 SOCIETY 9 Firefi ghter-Rescuers’ Training & Retraining in European Standards to Come to Georgia

BY MARIAM MERABISHVILI

irefi ghter-rescuers’ training and retraining in accordance with European standards is soon to be made available in Georgia. The Emergency Management FService (EMS) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs has said it plans a complete reor- ganization of the Training Center. The training-retraining process will be carried out at the Police Academy of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and will see the EMS offering training programs, modules and curricular that are based on the recommendations of the Direc- torate General of the European Union Image source: Emergency Management Service for Civil Security and Humanitarian Assistance. A one-week visit of the EU and fi re-rescue divisions across the Emergency Management Services. Evaluation Mission, comprising 13 experts, country. Cooperation with the Evaluation Mis- has just been completed in Georgia. The Commissioner Evaluation Mission sion of the European Union for Civil Within the framework of this visit, the gave a positive assessment of the pos- Security and Humanitarian Assistance European Commission Evaluation Mis- sibilities of a chemical, biological, radi- will defi nitely continue in the future, the sion visited the EMS Training Center ation, and nuclear recipient group of the EMS states. CULTURE Welcome to Georgia – The Musical, One Year On

cinema tickets, though we in the indus- try don’t agree with this. We inform them that this is a commercial project that was initiated and fully fi nanced by the managing team. To be honest, we would love to reduce the ticket price in future, but right now it’s just not possible due to the small capacity of the theater.

WHAT CHANGES DID YOU MAKE BETWEEN SEASONS AND HOW MUCH DID AUDIENCE FEEDBACK AFFECT YOUR DECISIONS? We added one character, Aniko, played by Ana Kurtubadze, an actress with a great voice who brought an additional musical fl avor to the show. We also added two songs, which the audience just love. We are quite often asked to remove the dialogue where we mention that some Georgian territories are currently occu- pied. These requests come from various and from them received mainly positive tourist agencies working on incoming EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW BY feedback and reviews about the show. Russian tourists, who offer to bring more KATIE RUTH DAVIES There has also been a lot of interest from guests to the show if this phrase is the Georgian audience, as well as from removed. However, we believe that this Georgians who live abroad. moment is one of the highlights of the elcome to Georgia – We had a number of extra shows booked show and we are very proud of it, so it The Musical was by various brands as “welcome events” will never be removed. premiered in Febru- for guests attending international con- ary 2018 at the Music ferences in Georgia. This is a new and WHAT ARE YOUR & Drama State brilliant opportunity for us to deliver FUTURE PLANS/DREAMS WTheater in Tbilisi. During the fi rst sea- more shows for the MICE industry. FOR THE SHOW? son, the show was played 18 times for And we’ve had several promoters from We are constantly working on making more than 2000 international guests different European cities contact us and the show even better and in future we’ll from 60 different countries. Now well we’re working on a plan to take the show be moving to a new theater with a big- into its third season, its popularity is on tour. ger capacity and possibilities. growing and there have been requests We’re working hard to take the show to take the show on an international tour. WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE on tour abroad as we believe it is a per- GEORGIA TODAY caught up with Natia YOU FACED AND HOW HAVE fect presentational performance about Amiridze, Managing Partner, to fi nd out YOU OVERCOME THEM? Georgia with all its highlights. the latest news. One of the biggest challenges is to have to keep explaining to the Georgian audi- To fi nd out more or buy tickets, use these ONE YEAR ON- TELL US ence why the tickets are “so expensive”. links: Facebook: www.facebook.com/musi- THE HIGHLIGHTS. It’s no surprise to hear the question cal.ge/ We’ve hosted more than 4000 interna- because Georgians are used to buying Instagram: @musical.ge tional guests from 60 different countries theater tickets for less than the price of www.musical.ge GEORGIA TODAY 10 CULTURE MARCH 22 - 25, 2019

WHAT’S ON IN TBILISI THEATER March 23 NUMISMATIC TREASURY GALLERY Staging Conductor - Tamaz Japaridze LABIRINTH EXHIBITION STONE AGE Conductor – Revaz Javakhishvili Directed by Kakha Bakuradze GEORGIA ARCHEOLOGICAL Staging Director - Lela Gvarishvili RUSTAVELI THEATER THE NATIONAL GALLERY One-act mystery with live music TREASURE NEW LIFE TO THE Start time: 19:00 17 Rustaveli Ave. 11 Rustaveli Ave. The performance describes different ORIENTAL COLLECTIONS Ticket: 5-10 GEL TEL (+995 32) 2 72 68 68 TEL (+995 32) 215 73 00 phases of human life; people moving www.rustavelitheatre.ge March 23 in an endless labyrinth- social, urban, WISDOM TRANSFORMED INTO Until February 26, 2020 MUSIC SCHOOL FOR GIFTED emotional and communicative. GOLD March 27 GRAND MASTERS FROM CHILDREN Start time: 20:00 DOVIN- DOVEN-DOVLI THE GEORGIAN NATIONAL Tbilisi State Conservatoire Recital Hall Until March 29 Contemporary ballet based on Ticket: 10-15 GEL MUSEUM COLLECTION XIX – XX Start time: 18:00 Georgian National Museum joins CENTURY Ticket: 10 GEL Galaktion Tabidze’s poetry the cycle of events dedicated to 500 Original idea of the ballet and March 24 IGGI years after the death of Leonardo FABRIKA SOUNDS OF GEORGIA choreography of The Moon Over Da Vinci and invites visitors to the Mtatsminda– Giorgi Aleksidze Story by Jemal Karchkhadze 8 Ninoshvili Str. Director: Kakha Bakuradze educational-multimedia project March 22, 23 Choreographer– Mariam Aleksidze LEONARDO - OPERA OMNIA SING AND DRINK Director– Gela Kandelaki Start time: 20:00 March 22 Mini concerts in the cozy atmosphere where digital reproductions of PECHAKUCHA NIGHT TBILISI Music Consultant– Teimuraz Ticket: 10-15 GEL of Old Tbilisi, which is a mix of Leonardo's artworks are exposed. VOL. 7 Bakuradze traditional Georgian music, featuring PechaKucha Night was devised in Small stage March 28 different genres: folklore, a capella, DIVINE COMEDY Until March 31 Tokyo in February 2003 as an event guitar, as well as new Georgian pop Start time: 20:00 Exhibition for young designers to meet, network, Ticket: 10-20 GEL * Premiere and city songs. Based on the works of Dante Aligieri 100 YEARS OF GEORGIAN and show their work in public. In Start time: 17:00 PARLIAMENTARISM: THE Japanese, PechaKucha (࣌ࢳࣕࢡ Ticket: 24 GEL GABRIADZE THEATER Three 20-minute choreographic statements GEORGIAN CONSTITUENT ࢳࣕ) means “blah-blah-blah” or Venue: March 22- 10 Erekle II Sq., 14 Shavteli Str. Tekla Palace Hotel; Directed by Ioseb Bakuradze ASSEMBLY “chit-chat”. The topic of PechaKucha Night Tbilisi vol. 7 is "Digital Media March 23- New Tifl is, 9 Start time: 20:00 March 22 IOSEB GRISHASHVILI Trends". The event and the talks will Agmashenebeli Ave., Ticket price: 10-15 GEL Wine bar ‘Wine Station’ THE AUTUMN OF MY TBILISI HISTORY MUSEUM be in English. SPRINGTIME - KARVASLA Start time: 19:19 Revaz Gabriadze MUSIC & DRAMA STATE Ticket: 20 GEL REPUBLIC THEATER 8 Sioni St. No1, Republic Sq. Directed by Revaz Gabriadze TEL (+995 32) 2 98 22 81 English Subtitles 182 Agmashenebeli Ave. MUSIC March 23 Start time: 20:00 Until April 12 Republic and “Club Iveria” present an Ticket: 20, 30 GEL March 26 DJ. KAKHIDZE TBILISI WELCOME TO GEORGIA Tutu Kiladze’s Exhibition eclectic collective from Berlin CRYPTOGRAM CENTER FOR MUSIC & JAZZANOVA LIVE AND March 23 The Musical CULTURE GERMAN DANCE MUSIC DUO RAMONA A musical, theatrical play and romantic 125/127 Agmashenebeli Ave. SUPER FLU! comedy telling a story about Georgia Until March 30 Revaz Gabriadze EXHIBITION OF OMAR AND Start time: 22:00 and its people by combining song, Ticket: 60-200 GEL Directed by Revaz Gabriadze NANA KATCHKACHISHVILI'S March 23 dance, culture, traditions, history, CONSERT IN THE FRAMES OF English Subtitles WORKS Start time: 20:00 national costumes and local cuisine. VAKHTANG KAKHIDZE JUBILEE OUT OF TOWN FESTIVAL Ticket: 20, 30 GEL Start time: 20:00 HIS CHORAL AND VOCAL – 16 N. Dumbadze Str., Akhaldaba Ticket: 50-80 GEL STATE SILK MUSEUM INSTRUMENTAL WORKS Address: 6 Tsabadze Str. March 23 March 24 performed by the Tbilisi Symphony Orchestra, Georgian State Choir, The festival is in harmony with nature STALINGRAD SHALIKASHVILI THEATER and full of positive emotions, which 37 Rustaveli Ave. Until March 31 Ensemble ‘Rustavi’, Boy’s Ensemble Revaz Gabriadze PHOTO EXHIBITION takes place every season. TEL 595 50 02 03 ‘Mdzlevari’ and Soloist– Nutsa Directed by Revaz Gabriadze THE LAST NOMADS LINE UP: English Subtitles Zakaidze, Ketevan Kartvelishvili, ZEDA STAGE: Start time: 20:00 March 29, 30 Barbare Rusidze, George Aleksandria, RENE, GIGI, DIGITAL GROOVE MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS Ticket: 20, 30 GEL HOST AND GUEST Badri Chikhiashvili, David Gvelesiani, AFFAIR, TROTSKY, L8, BEKUSHU Based on Vazha Pshavela’s poem 10 Betlemi Str. George Mgeladze and Merab KVEDA STAGE: Samkurashvili. March 23 Start time: 20:00 LYKKE, JIJI, SHNGL, NINA Includes excerpts from vocal cycle Animated documentary fi lm Ticket: 20 GEL Discover the Museum of Illusions Start time: 22:30 ‘Refl ection’, cantatas ‘Flower of Ticket: 25-30 GEL REZO Be brave enough to jump into an MUSEUM Hope’ and ‘Millenium -2000’ and the Directed by Leo Gabriadze illusion created by the Vortex, deform the image of yourself in the Christmas Trilogy for men’s and boy’s U-BAHN Start time: 20:00 choirs and symphony orchestra. 164 Agmashenebeli Ave. Ticket: 15 GEL GEORGIAN NATIONAL Mirror Room, let yourself free in the Infi nity room, fi ght the laws of gravity Start time: 19:30 MUSEUM SIMON JANASHIA Ticket: 10-30 GEL March 23 MOVEMENT THEATER MUSEUM and size ratio, and take pictures of PARGEOTY: Metamorphosis Night yourself in every possible pose. Enjoy 182 Aghmashenebeli Ave. 3 Rustaveli Ave. TBILISI STATE Line up: TEL (+995 32) 598 19 29 36 TEL (+995 32) 299 80 22, 293 48 21 our collection of holograms, look CONSERVATOIRE Main Room: www.museum.ge closer at every optical illusion and 8 Griboedov Str. Sarasvat, Obsidion, Mind Process, March 22 observe thoroughly each installation. Downwell House Room: TEMPEST Exhibitions: Tickets: 17.5 GEL, Children (ages 6-18): March 22 11 GEL, children (under 5 years): free, Different Groove, Eknr, SoundRaw, Directed by Ioseb Bakuradze GEORGIAN COSTUME AND Gaetano Donizetti Hyacinthus Start time: 20:00 WEAPONRY OF THE 18TH-20TH students: 13 GEL, family (2 adults + 2 L’ELISIR D’AMORE Start time: 23:00 Ticket: 10-15 GEL CENTURIES children): 39 GEL. Opera in two acts Ticket: 15-20 GEL

KHIDI V. Bagrationi Bridge, Right Emb.

March 28 CONCERT FOR ORGANS Circe– Experimental Platform for Dance and Theatre presents two performances: Performance 1: CONCERT FOR ORGANS Idea: Iwona Olszowska, Marcin Janus Dance: Iwona Olszowska, Text: Iwona Olszowska, Music: Marcin Janus Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 10 GEL Performance 2: FASHION FOR GENDER Idea and dance: Iwona Olszowska Music: Marcin Janus Fthat Start time: 21:00 Ticket: 10 GEL

HI CLUB 5 Mishveladze Str.

March 25 RADIO JAVAN NOROOZ PARTY with Radio Javan Resident DJs: Bahador S and DJ Moeen Start time: 22:30 Ticket: 65 GEL

EDELWEISS 20 Brother Kakabadze Str.

March 22 EDELWEISS Potpourri of Georgian, Italian English melodies with jazz elements. Musicians from Georgia, Germany, and Russia. Start time: 17:00 Ticket: 23 GEL GEORGIA TODAY MARCH 22 - 25, 2019 CULTURE 11 Interpreter & Swedish Film Critic Brings Photo Chronicle of Tarkovsky’s Last Film to Tbilisi and said that he felt spiritually at ease reshoot the fi re scene and build a new between the two countries. We already there,” Garrett told us. “He visited Tbilisi house when the camera jammed and all organized the same exhibition in the UK in 1982 and stayed for two weeks. He came the wires connecting to the house burnt, and since Tarkovsky had many connec- to see Sergei Parajanov, whom he appre- so it was a fi asco. We were shooting in tions with Georgia, we decided to bring ciated and loved very much, and many summer, and though nobody worked the exposition to Tbilisi as well. I want other people in Georgia. In his diary, he during this period on the island, the local to express my sincere gratitude to Giorgi recalled Parajanov as not only a genius Swedes helped the fi lm to get back on Kalandia [Art Palace Director] and the of his profession but generally ‘of every- track. Even the head of the local wood Art Palace museum for having signifi - thing,’ possessing a unique personality. factory came back from his holiday and cantly contributed to this project end It was a rare thing, since Tarkovsky rarely opened his factory and gave us the wood enabling the exhibition to happen. I also recognized or praised his colleagues and needed to rebuild the house. We had want to thank the Embassy of Sweden other directors of his time.” Bergman’s old team working on the fi lm. who supported and was co-organizer. “Georgia was the place to which he These people committed themselves We, together with Ms Layla, also organ- was closely related. His father, well- and gave everything for Tarkovsky. Sven ized a mutual project in London named known Soviet poet Arseny Tarkovsky, Nykvist and Erland Josephson contrib- the Parajanov Festival within the frames Image source: Art Palace came to Georgia in 1945,” Garrett elabo- uted their own money so the fi lm could of which Parajanov’s fi lms were shown the fi lm appears as a fi nal testament that rated. “We discovered his muse was be completed, without telling Tarkovsky. alongside his collages. Now, we are REVIEW BY LIKA CHIGLADZE urges everyone to take personal respon- Ketevan Ananiashvili, who was a teacher. When he found out, he was so moved pleased to present this joint project in sibility for everything that happens in Arseny Tarkovsky dedicated many poems by the Swedish generosity and love that Tbilisi,” she said. the world. to Georgia and to this particular woman. he got tears in his eyes. When Tarkovsky The Ambassador of Sweden to Georgia, n March 14, a multicultural Gotland is the largest island in Sweden, This is a very important exhibition and was dying from lung cancer, the Swed- Ulrik Tideström, thanked the director and exciting event took very close to Russia, and Tarkovsky I’m delighted to see so many people ish team worked literally 24/7 to fi nish of the museum for hosting the exhibi- place in Tbilisi: the open- would stand on the shore and look at attending it. Tarkovsky is a director who the fi lm for the Cannes Film Festival, tion as well as the initiators and curator ing of an exhibition pre- Russia, knowing he could not go back talked about personal responsibility and where it won the Special Jury Prize. of the project for bringing the display to senting a photo chronicle (it was still the Soviet Union at the time). spiritual development and this exhibi- When the fi lm was screened at the Cannes Georgia. ofO Andrey Tarkovsky’s last fi lm ‘Sacrifi ce’ Many renowned Swedish actors starred tion presents some episodes of the mak- festival in May, soon after the Chernobyl “This is a multicultural project that has at the Art Palace. The project was organ- in the hugely successful film, and ing of his last fi lm,” she said, noting that disaster that happened April that year, the potential to bring people together. ized through the mutual effort of the renowned Swedish fi lmmaker Ingmar her dream is to show the full retrospec- all the critics said that Tarkovsky had This exhibition was shown one year ago British Georgian Chamber of Commerce Bergman once said: “Andrei Tarkovsky tive of the seven fi lms of Tarkovsky on prophesized the nuclear war.” with huge success at the Ingmar Berg- (BGCC), Embassy of Sweden in Tbilisi, is for me the greatest, a man who invented the big screen in Tbilisi. Mako Abashidze told GEORGIA man Festival, so it is an honor and priv- State Museum of Music, Theater, Cinema a new language; true to the nature of “The fi lm’s budget was only two mil- TODAY more about the exhibition. ilege for all of us to now have the exhi- and Choreography (Art Palace) and the fi lm as mirror of life, life as a dream.” lion and we had to overcome many “This project was initiated by the Brit- bition in Tbilisi,” the Ambassador noted. Georgian Film Academy. The exhibition Layla Alexander Garrett was on set dur- unpredicted obstacles when fi lming,” ish Georgian Chamber of Commerce. was presented by guest of honor from ing the shooting of the fi lm, took many Garrett noted. “Sweden’s contribution Apart from trade, the aim of the organ- The exhibition closes on March 23 at 6 PM London, Swedish fi lm critic, writer and pictures and kept a diary during this to the fi lm was immense. We had to ization is to foster a closer relationship Art Palace, 6 Kargareteli St., Tbilisi author of the photos, Layla Alexander period. She also served as Tarkovsky’s Garrett. Within the frames of the project, on-set interpreter. Her diary became the a movie about Tarkovsky by Polish direc- basis for her book about Tarkovsky. Before tor Michal Leszczylowsk was premiered opening the Art Palace exhibition, Gar- at the Georgian Film Academy. rett presented her book about Tarkovsky Andrei Tarkovsky is widely regarded called ‘The Collector of Dreams,’ which as one of cinema’s true masters and can be bought on Amazon. She then although he only made seven features, thanked Mako Abashidze, Founding Direc- each was more affecting and mature than tor of the British Georgian Chamber of the one before it. The Russian director, Commerce (BGCC), for helping her make who was oppressed by the Soviet regime, a ‘Tarkovsky Festival’ in London in 2007 visited Georgia and had very close friendly and then assisting in creating the ‘Para- relations with Sergei Parajanov, a famous janov Festival’ in 2010. fi lm director of Armenian descent based As Garrett recalled, Tarkovsky used to in Tbilisi. say that, for him, art was a like prayer ‘Sacrifi ce’ was fi lmed in Sweden, on and an expression of a hope and “all the the island of Gotland, in 1985, while rest has nothing to do with art;” that Tarkovsky was in exile. It turned out to when the last prayer and poet disappears, be his last. As a result, although the it will be “the end of humanity.” director did not know that he was dying, “Tarkovsky loved Georgia very much "Shipwreck" Exhibition at Stamba Hotel The original exhibition held in Baku as it is metaphorical for others. One BY NINI DAKHUNDARIDZE in 2018 presented the pieces of Omar might not be able to relate to the diffi - Victor Diop, Adad Hannah, Marcel Oden- culty of forceful displacement, emigra- bach, Arjan Martins and Sitara Ibrahi- tion and refugees but this strongly visual n Wednesday, 'Shipwreck,' mova. The "Tbilisian 'Shipwreck'" adds exhibition helps us gain an understand- a new art exhibition, Georgian context to the concept of the ing of it. opened at Stamba Hotel exposition. The very theme of this art The inspiration for the name and sub- in Tbilisi. Organized by exhibition is a painful, yet popular sub- ject line of the exhibition comes from Goethe Institut Georgien ject for Georgia, which lost almost a Théodore Géricault’s masterpiece “Raft Oand art organization Propaganda, 'Ship- quarter of its population to emigration. of Medusa”. wreck' is a Georgian extended version It is a shelter for refugees and migrants 'Shipwreck' is an attempt to show dif- of 'Géricault’s Shipwreck Revisited' from neighboring countries as well as a ferent stories from different perspectives: (curated by Alfons Hud and Asli Sam- home to many internally displaced Geor- many of them are told by artists that adova). The exhibition shows an artis- gians. As such, it is no surprise that all have been on this journey themselves. tic approach to the concept and the of the Georgian artists who took part in Some stories depict people who found reality of refugees, migration, emigra- the project have not only poetic but a a safety haven, others – somewhere else. tion and forceful resettlement. Along natural, almost personal, understanding Some of the artists refl ect on ‘the biggest with pieces made specifi cally for the of the theme. Like Anna Dziapshipa, a human crisis of our times" (Ai WeiWei) event by Georgian artists, artists from fi lmmaker with an Abkhazi surname, – as is written on the signboard at the Azerbaijan, Canada, Germany and Sen- who states in her experimental video entrance of the exhibition. egal will also exhibit their work in On Being Dziapshipa “My body is a lost The exhibition is free of charge and is Tbilisi for a month. territory.” The line is as realistic for some open until April 20, 2019.

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