Significance
Parliament's failure last month to enact the promised transition to proportional representation sparked demonstrations in Tbilisi and other cities. The ruling Georgian Dream-Democratic Georgia party's immediate position seems safe, but it will have to reckon with signs that a more confident, determined and united opposition is emerging out of the previously diffuse political landscape.
Impacts
A bout of political instability would reduce the inflow of foreign direct investment.
Russia's instinct to exploit turmoil will be curbed by its reluctance to see the opposition win.
To address one area of discontent, the government may unblock the Anaklia port project.