Former Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili has been awarded the prestigious Freedom House award for her contribution to the development of democratic values. The awards ceremony will take place on May 20 in Washington, D.C., as part of the annual event celebrating the human rights organization's 85th anniversary.

Freedom House noted that Zurabishvili is being honored for her outstanding achievements in strengthening democracy through diplomacy and public service. This award is an important sign of support from Western institutions for the former president, particularly in the context of her confrontation with the ruling Georgian Dream party.

Experts believe that following the parliamentary elections and her disagreements with Georgian Dream, Zurabishvili has become a significant international figure representing the Georgian opposition. She actively speaks out on international platforms, criticizing the current government. In turn, the Georgian authorities accuse her of activities contrary to national interests.

Salome Zurabishvili recently appealed to the newly elected Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, Shio III, calling for an amnesty for those involved in pro-Western protests, calling them "prisoners of conscience." She believes that their release will allow Georgia to "turn a new page." The former president also expressed confidence that the new head of the church will continue the policy of strengthening the country's sovereignty.