EPP Adopts Emergency Resolution Condemning Democratic Backsliding in Georgia
By Liza Mchedlidze
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
The European People's Party (EPP) has adopted an emergency resolution addressing the escalating political crisis in Georgia. The resolution, tabled by the United National Movement (UNM) during the EPP's 13-14 January meeting, strongly criticizes the state of democracy and human rights under the ruling Georgian Dream party.
The EPP resolution draws attention to the flawed parliamentary elections held on October 26, 2024, which it describes as being in violation of democratic norms and failing to reflect the will of the Georgian people. Consequently, the resolution states, the new parliament and president lack democratic legitimacy.
It also condemns statements made by Irakli Kobakhidze, leader of Georgian Dream, regarding the suspension of Georgia's EU integration process, describing them as a betrayal of Georgia's European aspirations. Additionally, the resolution denounces the crackdown on peaceful protesters, reports of illegal detention and torture, and the general erosion of democratic standards.
The EPP resolution outlines a series of recommendations aimed at addressing the situation in Georgia:
1. Non-Recognition of Georgian Dream: The resolution urges EPP members to refrain from recognizing the Georgian Dream regime as a legitimate government. It recommends ceasing formal interactions with Georgian Dream officials and denying their credentials in international forums such as the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE).
2. Support for New Elections: The EPP calls for new elections under improved conditions, overseen by an impartial election administration and with robust international observation.
3. Sanctions on Officials: The resolution advocates for targeted sanctions against Georgian Dream officials, including Bidzina Ivanishvili, Irakli Kobakhidze, and others, for their roles in democratic backsliding and human rights violations.
4. Human Rights Mechanisms: The EPP recommends leveraging international mechanisms through organizations like the OSCE, Council of Europe, and UN to investigate allegations of election fraud and violence against civilians.
5. Support for Civil Society: It highlights the need to strengthen ties with Georgia's independent media and civil society organizations to counter authoritarianism.
6. Release of Political Prisoners: The resolution demands the release of all political prisoners, including former President Mikheil Saakashvili.
7. Euro-Atlantic Aspirations: The EPP reaffirms its support for the Georgian people's aspirations toward EU and NATO integration, emphasizing their resilience against the "Russian regime-style" governance.
The resolution calls for continued international attention to Georgia, emphasizing that restoring democracy is critical to maintaining the country's European future.
