Bidzina Ivanishvili, Georgian businessman and politician, 10th Prime Minister of Georgia

Bidzina Ivanishvili, known also by his alternate name Boris Ivanishvili, stands as a highly influential figure in Georgian society, recognized for his multifaceted roles as a prominent politician, a remarkably successful billionaire businessman, and a dedicated philanthropist. Born on February 18, 1956, he ascended to the highest echelons of power, serving as the Prime Minister of Georgia from October 2012 to November 2013, leaving an indelible mark on the nation's contemporary history.

A Pivotal Entrance into Georgian Politics

Ivanishvili's direct engagement in national politics commenced on April 21, 2012, with the establishment of the *Georgian Dream-Democratic Georgia* party. This move was not merely the creation of another political entity; it represented a significant turning point, quickly becoming a beacon for opposition forces. Under his astute leadership, a broad coalition of opposition parties was forged, presenting a formidable challenge to the incumbent government. This alliance proved highly effective, culminating in a resounding victory in the crucial 2012 parliamentary elections. Following this triumph, *Bidzina Ivanishvili* officially took office as the *Prime Minister of Georgia* on October 25, 2012, ushering in a new political era.

Leadership and Strategic Retreat

Despite his rapid and successful ascent to the premiership, *Bidzina Ivanishvili* made a distinctive decision to voluntarily step down from his post on November 20, 2013. This move was consistent with an earlier public commitment to transition back into the civil sector, a decision that underscored his unique approach to political power and public service. However, his influence remained palpable. After a period away from direct governmental roles, Ivanishvili made a strategic return to the political stage in 2018, reassuming leadership as the chairman of the *Georgian Dream-Democratic Georgia* party, continuing to play a pivotal role in shaping the country's political direction.

Navigating Dual Citizenship and Political Tensions

The issue of Ivanishvili's citizenship has been a subject of considerable public discourse and political controversy. While he held Georgian citizenship, a status notably granted to him by then-President *Mikheil Saakashvili*, he also acquired *French citizenship* in March 2010. This dual nationality became a focal point of contention when, in October 2011, he was controversially deprived of his *Georgian citizenship*. The official justification cited Article 32 of the Georgian Law on Citizenship, which enumerates grounds for loss of citizenship, including the acceptance of citizenship from another state. However, the timing of this decision—coming shortly after Ivanishvili publicly announced his intention to form a political party to challenge President *Mikheil Saakashvili*—led many observers to perceive it as a politically motivated act, highlighting the intense political rivalries of the period.

The Businessman Behind the Politician: A Vast Fortune

Beyond his political and philanthropic endeavors, *Bidzina Ivanishvili* is globally recognized as an exceptionally successful *billionaire businessman*. His staggering wealth has consistently placed him among the world's most affluent individuals. In March 2012, the prestigious *Forbes* magazine, in its annual ranking of the world's billionaires, listed him at an impressive number 153, estimating his net worth to be a formidable $6.4 billion. This significant fortune not only solidified his status as *Georgia's richest person* at the time but also underscored the vast economic influence he wielded both domestically and internationally.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bidzina Ivanishvili

Who is Bidzina Ivanishvili?

Bidzina Ivanishvili is a prominent Georgian politician, an incredibly successful billionaire businessman, and a noted philanthropist. He notably served as the Prime Minister of Georgia from October 2012 to November 2013 and founded the influential Georgian Dream-Democratic Georgia party, which has dominated Georgian politics.

When did Bidzina Ivanishvili become Prime Minister of Georgia?

He was elected as the Prime Minister of Georgia on October 25, 2012, following his party's victory in the parliamentary elections, and served until November 2013.

What is the Georgian Dream-Democratic Georgia party?

It is a leading political party in Georgia, founded by Bidzina Ivanishvili on April 21, 2012. It formed a successful coalition that won the 2012 parliamentary elections and has since played a dominant role in Georgian politics, with Ivanishvili returning as its chairman in 2018.

Why was Bidzina Ivanishvili's Georgian citizenship revoked?

His Georgian citizenship was revoked in October 2011 after he had also obtained French citizenship in March 2010. The official reason cited Article 32 of the Georgian Law on Citizenship concerning dual nationality, though the timing, immediately after he announced his political challenge to then-President Mikheil Saakashvili, led many to believe it was politically motivated.

How wealthy is Bidzina Ivanishvili?

In March 2012, Forbes magazine estimated his net worth at $6.4 billion, ranking him as the 153rd richest person in the world and the richest person in Georgia at that time. His wealth stems from extensive business ventures.