On September 15, 17, and October 1, the USAID Rule of Law Program organized public talks in Batumi, Kutaisi, and Akhaltsikhe. The events featured the renowned author Dato Turashvili and local legal experts Darejan Saldadze, head of the Kutaisi branch of the Georgian Young Lawyers' Association (GYLA), and Aslan Chanidze, head of the Independent Journalists' House in Adjara. The talks drew 181 participants from diverse backgrounds and age groups eager to discuss topics such as freedom of expression and assembly and the role ordinary citizens can play in fostering democracy.

Mr. Turashvili, whose literary career spans three decades and who has published many books, novels, short stories, and plays, began his presentation by noting, “Nothing frees a person like a book and knowledge.” Turashvili went on to describe the transformative power of literature as he connected with the audience using themes drawn from his bestselling novels.  One of these novels was “Flight from the USSR” (originally titled “The Jeans Generation”) which is based on the real-life story of seven young people who hijacked a plane in 1983 in a desperate attempt to escape Soviet Georgia. The novel was adapted for the stage and became a celebrated production of the Georgian Free Theatre. Commenting on his book, Turashvili explained that the young people’s actions were not just a crime, but also a statement made against an oppressive regime leading to severe consequences. Audience sentiments were divided—some viewed the young people as terrorists, while others saw their actions as a justified fight for freedom

Mr. Turashvili also spoke about a novel “Free Person” written to mark the 100th anniversary of the Georgian legal profession. He mentioned pivotal moments in Georgian history and paid tribute to the courageous individuals who dedicated their lives to protecting others, both in Georgia and in other countries. Through his stories, he introduced the audience to important figures who made significant contributions to Georgian law and society, emphasizing the resilience of the Georgian people, their ongoing fight for freedom, and their determination to shape a future where individuals have control over their lives.

In his welcome remarks in Akhaltsikhe, USAID Rule of Law Program Chief of Party Giorgi Chkheidze outlined the Program's details, and the purpose of the public talks conducted through the Program's Rule of Law Hubs in Kutaisi, Batumi, and Akhaltsikhe. He emphasized the value of involving local communities through public meetings to build awareness of their fundamental rights. In her presentation, Ms. Saldadze spoke about free speech and expression from a human rights perspective. She explored the boundaries of individual rights in society and the state's responsibility to protect freedom of expression.  Mr. Chanidze in his comments stated that freedom is humanity's greatest achievement and a core part of Georgian history. He highlighted the connection between individual and national freedom, noting that when one is compromised, the other suffers. He urged the new generation not to take freedom for granted and to protect this essential achievement of Georgian statehood.

The audience was highly engaged, asking questions about the relevance of these topics in Georgia today. The younger participants were especially curious about the views of the older generation on the Soviet era, one of them asking, "How is it possible to be nostalgic for that time?" There were also questions about the use of administrative sanctions against protesters and the responsibility of public figures to tolerate criticism from demonstrators.