Georgian MMA fighter Giorgi Kartvelishvili has announced the creation of a civic movement dedicated, he says, to defending Georgian traditions, culture, and national identity. The athlete spoke about the new initiative at a press conference held at the offices of the Georgian Federation of Journalists.

"Insulting the memory of our ancestors and the culture and national identity of the Georgian people—followed by active discussion of these topics and attempts to present such things as the societal norm—has a single goal: to devalue the national values ​​that unite the Georgian people. That is why, starting today, our initiative group is establishing a grassroots movement to defend Georgian values, traditions, and national identity. We are launching a fight against individuals and groups that we believe are funded from abroad, serve foreign interests, and adhere to a distorted ideology," Kartvelishvili said.

He added that "every patriotic citizen" of Georgia is welcome to join the initiative.

"We want to tell the public that our movement will be highly active and serious, yet as constructive as possible. However, if defending our culture and national identity requires it, we will not back down in the face of any threat. We are prepared to take responsibility for every action we take—and, if necessary, even go to prison," Kartvelishvili declared.

The initiative drew an immediate response from politicians. Nika Gvaramia, leader of the opposition "Coalition for Change" and the "Akhali" party, stated that such declarations could lead to violence rather than the protection of traditions.

"If this guy has loved ones, they should explain to him that with an approach like this, you usually end up in the morgue, not in prison," Gvaramia wrote.
The ruling party, by contrast, welcomed the initiative. Archil Gorduladze, head of the parliamentary committee on legal affairs, emphasized that citizens have the right to organize and defend their views, provided they act within the law.

"Everyone has the right to organize and freely express their opinion. However, all such activities must be conducted strictly within the framework of the law. It is positive when people wish to defend their country’s culture, faith, citizens' rights, and history, and to oppose deliberate actions directed against these values. Yet, all of this must take place in compliance with the law and strictly within its bounds," Gorduladze stated.

The theme of defending "traditional values" has long played a significant role in the rhetoric of the ruling Georgian Dream party. It was under these slogans that the country adopted the law "On Family Values ​​and the Protection of Minors." Supporters describe the document as a measure to protect the institution of the family, whereas critics—both within Georgia and abroad—view it as an anti-LGBT law, as it imposes restrictions affecting the rights of the LGBT community and public discussion of related topics.