Buniatishvili demands peace: Music comforted in difficult times!

Buniatishvili demands peace: Music comforted in difficult times!

The Georgian pianist Khatia Buniatishvili is concerned about the critical political situation in Georgia and the war in Ukraine. In the current conversation, she realizes that the continuing conflict in Ukraine and the violent repression of the pro-Russian Georgian government have shaped the lives of people in both countries against peaceful protests. Buniatishvili, who used to live in Paris and is now in Switzerland, emphasizes the need for a peace solution to end suffering, especially that of children. "My only wish at this time is peace in Ukraine. The suffering of the people there must have an end," says the artist, who has a daughter herself and wants to focus on a happy childhood, while she is confronted with the difficult reality that not only affects Georgia, but also other regions, such as Gaza, where many people have to hunger, reports the Kleine Zeitung .

Buniatishvili criticizes the Georgian government, which, according to its statement, systematically violates human rights of citizens. The handling of the government with the demonstrators is not only pro-Russian or pro-European, but above all anti-human, what is unacceptable for them. "It is now about human rights. What is happening there now harms our country. I am very sad about it," she says. In view of the geopolitical situation, Georgia decided on a policy of "strategic patience" towards Russia under the "Georgian Dream" government party, which leads to tensions between the country and the EU. Prime Minister Irakli Garibashwili recently emphasized the need to protect stability and peace through pragmatic diplomacy. But this is criticized by the opposition and civil society as too compliant towards Moscow. Especially the resumption of air traffic with Russia in May 2023 triggered a lot of resentment, as can be seen from an article by swp berlin

However, it can be seen that the population in Georgia is also increasingly supporting pro-Western politics, with surveys over 80% of the EU. Nevertheless, the influence of Russia remains strong, and geopolitical uncertainty is also evident in the domestic policy tensions, where protests against the government keep flackling up. Historically, Georgia has to struggle with aggressive neighbors, and many citizens are concerned that the current government does not receive the necessary support from Western partners to create a clear perspective on EU integration.