VA - place : georgia (2019)

place : is country specific - electronic music compilations where the proceeds are donated to local human rights groups. Highlight the local producers, and bring awareness to the social causes that are important to the creative community there.

Social Cause

Recent unrest in Tbilisi which saw young clubbers and far-right demonstrators facing off in street protests have highlighted divisions between Georgia’s long-standing conservative traditions and emerging, more liberal views. After transitioning Georgia to a parliamentary system of governance, the ruling Georgian Dream party rushed through constitutional reforms without securing broader political consensus.

In May 2018, Georgian police raided multiple popular clubs in Tbilisi, using excessive force against workers and guests. The officially stated reason for the raid is due to recent drug-related deaths and accusations of drug trafficking.

This sparked a two-day long protest in front of the Georgian parliament. “We dance together, we fight together” – under this slogan, people organized a big techno party. It was not just about dancing. These young people were protesting against restricting their freedom. Tbilisi electronic music scene has displayed unprecedented level of solidarity and unity and once again has proven that along with people, it stands at the vanguard of social changes, fights for justice, equality and freedom.

Other areas of concern include punitive criminal drug policies for drug users, occupational safety and labor rights, media freedoms, particularly media pluralism, and violence and discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people.