U.S. Ambassador Robin Dunnigan Reflects on Democracy and Bids Farewell at Independence Day Celebration
By Liza Mchedlidze
Thursday, July 3, 2025
U.S. Ambassador to Georgia Robin Dunnigan delivered a heartfelt farewell and strong defense of democratic values during a speech at the U.S. Embassy's July 4 Independence Day celebration in Tbilisi. The remarks marked her final public address as ambassador ahead of her planned retirement and departure from Georgia later this month.
"Since the day we arrived, Georgians have opened their hearts and their homes to us, making us feel that we too are part of the Georgian family," Dunnigan said. "We will forever be friends of Georgia, and I will leave a piece of my heart behind when I depart. And I will never stop believing in and supporting the future of democracy in Georgia."
The ambassador used the occasion of America's 248th Independence Day to reflect on the meaning of democracy, emphasizing the importance of civic responsibility, freedom, and optimism.
"This year, I find myself reflecting more deeply than ever on the concept of democracy," she said. "I believe this moment in history demands reflection on our democracy, on the freedoms we enjoy, and our duty to future generations."
Dunnigan spoke of three essential elements that sustain democracy: promise, duty, and optimism. She described democracy as a shared commitment that thrives when people are free to speak, vote, worship, and debate. She honored those who have sacrificed to uphold those freedoms, including American service members and people still fighting for democratic rights.
"July 4 is also a day when Americans reflect on the tremendous sacrifices made for our independence, a day when we remember that freedom is not free," she said. "Our men and women in uniform know that all too well, and I want to thank them for volunteering to pay the ultimate price for our freedom."
The ambassador also warned of the ongoing threats to democracy. "There are citizens who are jailed because they are political opponents of the government. There are civil society representatives who are being targeted for their work to promote rule of law, free media, and free and fair elections. And there are ordinary citizens who are being labeled 'radical' because their views differ from government officials," she said.
Dunnigan reflected on Georgia's religious and cultural diversity and praised the country's democratic aspirations. "I have witnessed freedom of religion in the heart of Tbilisi, where the peaceful coexistence of churches, synagogues and mosques is a symbol of the spirit of community and inclusion of the Georgian people," she said.
She pushed back against claims that the U.S.-Georgia relationship is merely symbolic, pointing to years of real cooperation and support. "I have met thousands of Georgians who told me how the U.S.-Georgian partnership helped them. Farmers, teachers, students, doctors, businesspeople, all of whom told me how their collaboration with America improved their lives."
Recalling the aftermath of Russia's 2008 invasion, she said, "As Russian tanks were withdrawing, U.S. tractors and engineers and food aid were arriving. Because that's what friends in democracies do."
Dunnigan also expressed deep gratitude to the U.S. Embassy staff, the USAID team, and event sponsors for their continued work and support. She confirmed that her time in Georgia was coming to a close.
"As many of you know, my husband Harry and I have decided to retire after 33 years as U.S. diplomats, and we will be departing this amazing country later this month," she said.
The ambassador closed her speech with a message of hope. "I am optimistic because I know the vast majority of Americans and Georgians believe in the promise of our democracy and our duty to defend it. I am optimistic because of the many people in the United States and Georgia committed to service for their country. And I am also optimistic because I know the youth in both of our countries are extraordinary."
"Let me close by asking you to join me in a toast - to the power of the promise of democracy, our duty to defend it, and optimism that we will succeed. Happy Birthday, America! Gaumarjos!"
