“This is a scandalous development, an authoritarian development that is happening in Georgia right now, and I have great respect for the people who, again and again, fill the streets and use their right to protest to express their discontent with the current situation, despite the oppression,” Thunberg said.

The activist was photographed wearing a keffiyeh, in a nod to Palestinians suffering under Israeli occupation and military assault. Her foray into Georgian politics is the latest broadening of her activism, which has seen her arrested during pro-Palestinian protests this year.

According to local media, opposition leaders announced the rally a few days ago, marking the second major demonstration since the elections. After the vote, the European Commission presented a critical progress report on Georgia’s accession to the EU, highlighting putting the country’s membership aspirations on ice.

“This week is the week of resistance marches across Tbilisi,” said Giorgi Vashadze, a member of the opposition United National Movement. said during the rally.

“We demand the calling of new elections. We do not recognize the stolen elections and we do not recognize the legitimacy of parliament,” he said, warning that protests will intensify in the coming days.

“Joining this fight is not only our responsibility, it is everyone’s responsibility,” he added.