Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze delivered a keynote address at CPAC Hungary on Saturday, marking his third consecutive appearance at the influential conservative political conference. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán lauded Kobakhidze, declaring Georgia the ‘bravest nation in Europe’ during the event. CPAC Hungary, initiated in 2022 and expanding globally, showcased a diverse lineup of conservative…
Thus Spoke the Wind, an Armenian drama, receives a disappointing review, prioritizing art over substance. Russian director Maria Rigel’s latest film offers a slow, largely incomprehensible look at Armenian society. Rigel, previously known as Mariya Batova, filmed in Armenia following the country’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Inspired by Parajanov and Sokurov, she aimed to…
Georgia, USA, 23.03.2026, visa rules, bond Georgia has become the sole European nation requiring its citizens to post a $15,000 financial bond to secure a U.S. visa. The U.S. State Department’s new regulations necessitate this substantial deposit for Georgian nationals seeking a visa, marking a significant shift in international travel procedures. This action stems from…
Daily Brief – Monday, 23 March 2026 by OC Media • 3 minutes read Become an exclusive member and gain privileged access to a vital source of information. OC Media offers a unique service focused on the Caucasus region. As a valued member, you’ll support our mission and receive access to several key resources. These…
News from Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan – a summary of key developments. Live updates from Baku, Tbilisi, and Yerevan, Monday, March 23rd. Recent events in Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan, including top stories from March 16th-20th, 2026, are being widely discussed across local media and social networks. Daily morning roundups provide updates on news, commentary, trending…
The funeral of Patriarch Ilia II in Georgia marked a historic and unprecedented event in Tbilisi on March 22, 2026. Following five days of mourning, the nation offered a poignant farewell to a man who profoundly shaped the Georgian Orthodox Church and, significantly, Georgian society for nearly fifty years. The Patriarch’s final resting place was…
The Circassian New Year, a significant occasion once marking spring’s arrival, now faces questions about its relevance in modern society. The tradition, known as Ilhesyshhe Zeblechyghu, or ‘the alternation of the heads of the years,’ arrives with the spring equinox and lasts for three days, typically between 21–23 March. Historically, it was a family-centered celebration…
In Tbilisi, Georgia, thousands of people have been queuing for extended periods to honor the patriarch. The funeral of Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II, who passed away at 93 after a prolonged illness following 48 years leading the Georgian Orthodox Church, is taking place. Tens of thousands have paid their final respects over three days. The funeral…
The Freedom House “Freedom in the World 2026” report reveals concerning trends in the region. In 2025, political rights and civil liberties declined across 54 nations, with only 35 experiencing improvements. The report classifies Armenia and Georgia as “partly free,” contrasting sharply with Azerbaijan’s “not free” rating. Armenia maintains a score of 54, while Georgia’s…
Azerbaijan celebrated Nowruz on March 20 and 21, 2026, fostering a joyous atmosphere across the nation, from Baku’s central districts to outlying villages. This significant holiday marks the commencement of the new year and symbolizes the resurgence of nature and the promise of renewal. The event is deeply rooted in ancient traditions, tracing its origins…