Tbilisi is Georgia's capital and a South Caucasus hub for international organisations, but political unrest has intensified following 2024 elections and Russian occupation remains 80km away. Specialist cover is advisable for field operations.
We provide specialist cover for journalists, NGOs, researchers and contractors operating in Tbilisi and across Georgia.
Tbilisi is moderate risk. Political unrest has increased significantly. Russian occupied territory lies 80km from the capital.
Standard travel insurance may not adequately cover political unrest, journalist targeting or assignments extending to occupied territory boundaries.
Security context
The situation
Tbilisi is Georgia's vibrant capital and a regional hub for international organisations, journalists and NGOs covering the South Caucasus. The city itself is generally safe by regional standards, with a functioning government, reasonable rule of law and a growing economy. However, it sits at the nexus of significant geopolitical tensions — Russia's occupation of South Ossetia is visible from the main highway north of the city, and Tbilisi has experienced repeated episodes of political crisis that have generated significant civil unrest.
The most significant recent development is the intensification of political unrest following the contested October 2024 elections, in which the Georgian Dream party claimed victory amid widespread allegations of fraud. Large demonstrations in Tbilisi's Rustaveli Avenue and surrounding areas resulted in repeated clashes between protesters and security forces using tear gas and water cannon. The government's increasingly Russia-friendly posture on legislation — including restrictions on civil society organisations — has deepened political polarisation and maintained elevated protest risk.
For international workers, Tbilisi presents a manageable but not risk-free environment. Proximity to South Ossetia (approximately 80km from the city centre) means that any significant deterioration in Russia-Georgia relations could affect Tbilisi directly, as demonstrated in August 2008 when Russian forces briefly reached the outskirts of Gori, 80km from the capital.
What to watch
Why it can be challenging
Political unrest and protest-related clashes in central Tbilisi
Tbilisi's central districts, particularly Rustaveli Avenue, have been the scene of repeated clashes between protesters and security forces. Water cannon, tear gas and pepper spray have been used. Political polarisation remains high and further unrest is likely given ongoing governance disputes.
Geopolitical risk from proximity to occupied South Ossetia
South Ossetia's administrative boundary lies approximately 80km north of Tbilisi. The 2008 war demonstrated that military escalation can threaten the capital rapidly. While the risk of a further large-scale Russian operation against Georgia is currently assessed as low, it cannot be excluded.
Journalist and civil society targeting by authorities
Georgia's declining press freedom and civil society environment — including laws restricting foreign-funded organisations — creates risk for journalists and NGO workers. Targeted prosecution, surveillance and restrictions on reporting have been documented.
Limited specialist medical infrastructure
Tbilisi has improving private medical facilities including GPC (Georgian-American Clinic) and Ingorokva National Centre. For complex trauma or specialist care, evacuation to Istanbul or Ankara provides significantly better options.
Emergency support
NGS provides round-the-clock emergency support. Tbilisi's improving private medical infrastructure handles most emergencies; NGS coordinates evacuation to Istanbul or Ankara for complex cases.
24/7 response
Round-the-clock support every day of the year
Medical coordination
Coordinating care including evacuation to Istanbul or Ankara
Evacuation support
Managing exit via Tbilisi International Airport
Case management
Handling the incident through to a safer outcome
Exclusions
This policy is designed to protect people, not possessions.
Cover not included
Activity exclusions
Property exclusions
Related locations
Threat intelligence
For a deeper understanding of the current situation, including operational risks and regional dynamics, see our threat intelligence hub.
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