Story perspectives

Georgia Faces Backlash for Using WWI Chemicals on Protesters

12/2/2025

Center

Georgia's Chemical Crackdown

Georgian authorities used camite, a World War One-era chemical, against anti-government protesters in Tbilisi in late 2024.
Experts, including Dr. Konstantine Chakhunashvili, reported severe symptoms such as skin irritation and vomiting.
Investigations revealed the chemical was likely mixed into water cannons, with former police officials confirming its use.
The Georgian government dismissed the findings as absurd.
UN Special Rapporteur Alice Edwards warned about the risks of using such chemicals.

Left

Georgian Dream Sues BBC

Georgian Dream, the ruling party in Georgia, plans to sue BBC over claims authorities used camite against protesters in 2024.
Georgian Dream labeled the BBC a 'fake media outlet' and dismissed the report.
The State Security Service has opened an investigation into the BBC's sources.
The investigation will examine claims of abuse of authority related to camite use.
Critics fear the probe may intimidate dissenters rather than seek justice.

History

Historical Context

The Geneva Protocol, signed on June 17, 1925, by 38 nations, including Georgia's allies, prohibited chemical and biological weapons in warfare. Despite this, the recent use of chemical agents against protesters in Tbilisi highlights ongoing violations of international norms. Such actions threaten human rights and government accountability, undermining the principles established to protect civilians since the aftermath of World War I.

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Georgia's Chemical Crackdown

Georgian authorities used camite, a World War One-era chemical, against anti-government protesters in Tbilisi in late 2024.
Experts, including Dr. Konstantine Chakhunashvili, reported severe symptoms such as skin irritation and vomiting.
Investigations revealed the chemical was likely mixed into water cannons, with former police officials confirming its use.
The Georgian government dismissed the findings as absurd.
UN Special Rapporteur Alice Edwards warned about the risks of using such chemicals.

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