“They have important stories to tell. They are extremely passionate. And they don’t do this for money – what they seek are rights for their communities.”

Which stories from our global network of grassroots journalists topped the list this year?

For the past few months, the world has been watching mass protests unfold in Georgia. These actions represent more than just opposition to the current government; they also reflect a deeper struggle over the country’s future. Caught between European integration and growing Russian influence, Georgians continue to push back against years of Kremlin-led democratic erosion. Their fight extends beyond Russia, shaping Georgia’s place in a shifting global order where the European Union (EU), the United States, and China also hold powerful influence.