IMEDI TV is a solid national broadcaster offering a broad mix of news and entertainment with a clear local focus—best for audiences seeking Georgian-language programming and domestic perspectives.
Founded in 2003, Imedi (which translates to "Hope" in Georgian) was originally created to offer a progressive alternative to the state-run media. Throughout its history, the channel has undergone significant transformations, involving changes in ownership, legal disputes, and dramatic shifts in its editorial line.
Following the 2012 election, Imedi TV underwent a notable transformation. Critical reporting on Georgian Dream decreased sharply, while coverage of UNM figures became consistently negative. Political talk shows began featuring ruling-party commentators almost exclusively, and news segments framed government critics as destabilizing forces.
From the outset, the network aimed for production excellence. It invested heavily in state-of-the-art broadcasting equipment, modern studios, and professional journalism. By recruiting top-tier talent from across the country, Imedi TV quickly broke the monopoly of state-run television and established itself as a highly competitive alternative to Rustavi 2, the other major private network of the era. Navigating Political Turbulence (2007–2012) imedi tv
: Reality shows, musical programs, game shows, and pop music (often aired at night). : Original television films and criminal drama series. : Documentaries, live talk shows, and sports programming. Digital & Official Platforms
Today, Imedi TV maintains a editorial line that is generally viewed by media monitors as supportive of the current Georgian Dream government, positioning itself as a counterweight to opposition-leaning networks like Mtavari Arkhi and Formula TV. Programming and Content Strategy
Patarkatsishvili died in February 2009. His family inherited the channel but struggled to maintain its oppositional edge. In 2012, Georgian Dream, a political coalition led by billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili, won the parliamentary election, ending UNM’s rule. Shortly thereafter, ownership of Imedi TV changed hands: first to Georgian businessman Roin Gvetadze, and then in 2015 to the “Imedi Media Holding,” whose ultimate beneficiary links back to individuals with close ties to the Georgian Dream government (Transparency International Georgia, 2017). IMEDI TV is a solid national broadcaster offering
Imedi’s most defining moment came on November 7, 2007. When tens of thousands of opposition demonstrators gathered in Tbilisi, the government accused Imedi of fomenting a coup. Police raided the station’s headquarters, shut down the broadcast, and beat staff members. It was a dark day for press freedom in Georgia. The station remained off the air for nearly a month.
Here are three different options for a social media post, ranging from official updates to casual engagement: Option 1: Official Announcement (Imedi Bank Launch)
: In a unique business expansion, Imedi TV announced plans in early 2026 to launch its own bank following international sanctions placed on its parent holding company. Following the 2012 election, Imedi TV underwent a
The official website (imedi dot ge) hosts a of the broadcast. This is low-latency and does not require a VPN when accessed from Georgia or Europe. However, for users in Russia or countries with heavy firewalls, a VPN may be required to bypass geo-restrictions.
: This duopoly extends heavily to economics. Historically, an estimated 80% of total national television advertising expenditure has been funneled directly into the two major pro-government stations, granting Imedi TV massive material and technical advantages over independent or smaller regional outlets. Editorial Framing and Geopolitical Narratives
Always remind viewers they can stream content via the official website or app .