The Chavchavadze Center and the University of Georgia jointly organized a conference in Tbilisi on August 12-13, dedicated to the 13th anniversary of the ceasefire following the 2008 Russo-Georgian war. The conference was attended by IDPs from the Tskhinvali region and youth living near the occupation zone.

 

On August 12 the event was opened by Zaza Bibilashvili, the founder of the Chavchavadze Center and  Constantine Topuria, the rector of the University of Georgia.  Arina Tavakarashvili, a professor at Saba University also addressed the audience.  The screening of the documentary "Tskhinvali 1920" followed, ensued by a lively discussion, moderated by Zaza Bibilashvili and the Center's senior fellow Gia Japaradze.  At the end of the first day, a tour of 19th century Tbilisi was organized for the participants.

 

On August 13, Professor of Ilia State University, Giorgi Mumladze delivered a lecture on the Role of Citizens in Protecting Freedom and Democracy. After the lecture, a discussion was moderated by Zaza Bibilashvili and the Center's director Nino Kalandadze.

 

At the end of the event, the participants visited the Museum of Soviet Occupation and the Golden Fund of the History Museum.