Georgia has faced significant protests, particularly following the government’s decision to pause its bid for European Union membership. When demonstrators took to the streets, authorities responded with a range of riot control methods, including the use of water cannons.
Reports emerged suggesting that Georgia’s police used a chemical weapon believed to be “camite.” This substance was initially developed during World War One, and its effects were notably severe. Protesters described a burning sensation on their skin that lingered, with many experiencing prolonged symptoms like coughing and shortness of breath.
Experts in chemical weaponry have investigated these claims. Dr. Konstantine Chakhunashvili, a pediatrician who experienced the fallout firsthand, conducted a survey among those affected. His study revealed that nearly half of the 350 respondents reported symptoms lasting over a month. Many reported headaches, fatigue, and heart abnormalities, raising alarm among medical professionals.
The BBC reached out to leading toxicologist Professor Christopher Holstege for an expert opinion. He noted that symptoms reported were consistent with exposure to camite. According to him, traditional riot control agents like CS gas would not have caused such persistent effects. He emphasized the dangers of using a chemical agent that was phased out decades ago due to safety concerns.
Whistleblowers from Georgia’s riot police corroborated these findings, claiming the chemical was still being used up until recently. Lasha Shergelashvili, a former head of weaponry in the riot police, stated that the chemical police used could be significantly stronger than standard crowd control substances, making it even more hazardous.
The ongoing protests reflect broader grievances against a government seen as increasingly authoritarian. They stem from accusations of electoral rigging and ties to Russian interests. Even as protests have become less frequent, they continue with demonstrators calling for change.
The situation has drawn international attention. Alice Edwards, a UN Special Rapporteur on Torture, expressed concern about the lack of regulations regarding these chemicals, arguing it could violate human rights laws.
As protests continue in Tbilisi, it remains critical for both national and international bodies to scrutinize the actions taken by authorities. The combination of questionable methods and a heavy hand could lead to profound implications for civil liberties in Georgia.
For more insights, you can check resources from BBC News and relevant health reports from organizations examining the effects of chemical exposures.
