MEPs Warn of Democratic Backsliding in Georgia, EU Integration at Risk
By Liza Mchedlidze
Thursday, October 10, 2024
In a resolution adopted on Wednesday, Members of the European Parliament expressed deep concern over Georgia's democratic backsliding, warning that the country's integration with the European Union is effectively on hold. Despite Georgia being granted EU candidate status in December 2023, MEPs highlighted troubling actions by the ruling Georgian Dream party, accusing it of pushing an increasingly authoritarian agenda.
The resolution points to the erosion of media freedom and LGBTQ+ rights, changes to electoral legislation, and growing anti-EU rhetoric. MEPs assert that these actions violate freedom of expression, censor media, stifle critical voices in civil society, and discriminate against vulnerable groups. The Parliament made clear that unless these laws are repealed, progress in Georgia's EU relations will be halted.
MEPs also condemned the Georgian government for fostering a climate of hatred and intimidation, including attacks on political pluralism. The resolution calls for a full investigation into police brutality against peaceful protestors who demonstrated in spring 2024 against Georgian Dream's controversial "foreign agents" law, which targets Western-funded media outlets and NGOs.
The resolution criticizes statements from prominent government figures, including oligarch and Georgian Dream 'honorary chairman' Bidzina Ivanishvili, who has referred to the opposition as a "criminal political force" and threatened to ban opposition parties.
Amid the ongoing decline of Georgia's democracy, MEPs demand that all EU funding to the Georgian government be frozen until these undemocratic laws are repealed. They stress that future funding can only be provided under strict conditions.
The European Council had granted Georgia candidate status with the understanding that reforms outlined in a European Commission recommendation would be implemented. However, MEPs argue that the government's current authoritarian course contradicts its EU ambitions.
Upcoming Elections Crucial for Georgia's Future
With upcoming parliamentary elections, MEPs emphasized their importance in shaping Georgia's democratic future and geopolitical trajectory. They urged Georgian authorities to ensure that the elections meet international standards and respect the free will of the Georgian people.
The resolution calls for personal sanctions on those responsible for undermining democracy in Georgia, including Bidzina Ivanishvili. The text was adopted with 495 votes in favor, 73 against, and 86 abstentions.
