 |
|
GEORGIA
Independence declared: 9 April 1991
Population: 5 million
Capital: Tbilisi
President: Eduard Shevardnadze (since 26 November 1995)
 Country profile
Timeline
|
|
|
|
VIEWPOINTS
What would my life be like today if the Soviet Union still existed? No doubt there would be more certainty. We would have confidence in the future, I would work calmly, and my parents would be provided for in their old age. On the other hand, today I have the possibility of growth. I’m planning to go to America for two months next year. In Soviet times, that would have been absolutely impossible. And it’s also easier to pursue a career now. Of course, many people don’t have enough money for food, and I’m talking about careers. But for an enterprising person, there’s more opportunity today than in Soviet times. However, I no longer have a feeling of stability.
Georgy Sulakadze, lawyer
I have had long hair for 16 years. In the Soviet time this caused huge problems. I played rock-and-roll, and this was absolutely forbidden. The police used to follow us, and we weren’t allowed into concert halls. After the collapse of the USSR, rock music emerged from underground, long hair became acceptable, and no-one stopped anyone from playing music. But there’s another problem. In Soviet times, despite all the bans, young people went to concerts and rock groups were popular. Today people can do what they want, but they don’t need rock anymore. So it’s still difficult for musicians like me, but for different reasons.
Zaza Narsia, guitarist, 34
The collapse of the USSR brought nothing good for me. I used to work in an electric locomotive factory. It’s not only stopped working, but has been totally dismantled. The tools, the equipment, everything has been taken apart, and the pieces have been sold for scrap metal. I’m a highly-qualified specialist, and have been forced to work as a vendor.
Zurab Managadze, engineer
|
|
|
|
|
|
