Tragic Murder of Influencer Kesaria Abramidze Raises Alarms in Georgia
Kesaria Abramidze, a prominent transgender influencer, actress, and model, was tragically murdered on September 18, 2023, at her home in Georgia, suffering from multiple stab wounds. The 37-year-old had over 500,000 followers on social media and was a vocal advocate for LGBT+ rights. Her assassination has been linked to her gender identity and comes on the heels of a controversial law restricting LGBT+ rights that was passed just two days prior, prompting widespread condemnation from international bodies such as the European Union and the United States.
Investigations Underway Amid Rising Tensions
The Georgian Interior Ministry has launched an investigation into the murder, suspecting it to be a premeditated act with particular cruelty due to the victim's gender. Authorities have arrested a suspect, reportedly Abramidze's boyfriend, as they delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding her death. President Salome Zurabishvili condemned the murder, stating, "This tragedy must wake up Georgian society," highlighting the urgent need for reform and protection for vulnerable communities in the country.
Context of Violence Against the LGBT+ Community
Abramidze had previously spoken out against domestic violence and the lack of effective protection from authorities, sharing her own experiences of being in a toxic relationship. Her murder amplifies the concerns raised by the Georgian Human Rights Commission, which reported persistent discrimination and violence against the LGBT+ community in 2022. The recent legislation, which equates homosexuality with incest and restricts public gatherings, has been criticized for further endangering the rights and safety of marginalized groups. As Georgia grapples with its identity between Western aspirations and conservative values, the need for societal change has never been more pressing.
