ANTI-GENDER AND ANTI-LGBTQI MOBILIZATION IN GEORGIA - 2023

The first half of 2023 was marked by further growth of anti-Western, anti-liberal, sexist, and homophobic discourse in Georgia. The main sources of sexist and homophobic hate speech over the years have been antiliberal and extreme right-wing actors, which have recently been reinforced by conservative rhetoric actively used by the authorities.

The politicization of the term "gender” and the use of gender themes for political struggle is a common recent trend. In the case of Georgia, sexist and homophobic content was used to incite anti-Western and anti-liberal sentiments and strengthen pro-Kremlin influence, as well as to discredit opponents.

The aim of this study is to analyze anti-gender and anti-liberal discourse, reveal the main actors that present topics related to gender and LGBTQI identity in a manipulative or false context, and identify gender-related messages used by anti-liberal, extreme right-wing, and conservative forces to mobilize public opinion. 

Part I of the report provides an overview of quantitative data on the use of sexist and homophobic hate speech and the terminology applied. Part II presents a qualitative analysis based on indicators of sexist hate speech, and Part III presents the main messages disseminated to mobilize the public on the false grounds of protecting identity, values, the institution of family, and children.

Authors:
LELA KHOMERIKI, TAMAR KINTSURASHVILI
Monitors:
TAMAR GAGNIASHVILI, SOPO CHKHAIDZE, MAIA CHALAGHANIDZE, MARIAM KAVTARADZE, SOPO GOGADZE, LIKA MACHARADZE, LEILA CHKHETIANI
Design:
BESIK DANELIA
Cover photo:
SHUTTERSTOCK
Link: ANTI-GENDER AND ANTI-LGBTQI MOBILIZATION IN GEORGIA - 2023