ISFED Assesses Georgian Dream's 'Unofficial Pre-Election Campaign'
By Liza Mchedlidze
Wednesday, June 26, 2024
According to a recent report published by the non-governmental organization International Society for Fair Elections and Democracy (ISFED), the ruling party Georgian Dream has initiated an "unofficial pre-election campaign".
The report assessed the political environment leading up to the 2024 parliamentary elections and stated that Georgian Dream has embarked on a large-scale social projects campaign well before the official pre-election period, which starts 60 days prior to the elections. According to ISFED, these initiatives demonstrate a mobilization of state resources for electoral gain.
"Although the official pre-election campaign begins 60 days before the elections, the ruling party has started mobilizing available resources, including state resources, and launched an unofficial pre-election campaign a long time ago," the report states. "Traditionally, this campaign is characterized by the implementation of large-scale social projects. State initiatives were identified, which contain signs of using administrative resources for electoral purposes."
ISFED highlighted several specific instances where administrative resources were allegedly used:
April 29 Rally: Georgian Dream used state resources for preparatory work for a rally supporting government policy and the "Transparency of Foreign Influence" law.
Pension Increases for Military: In February 2024, the government proposed increasing military pensions.
Debt Write-Offs: The government announced initiatives to write off fines and tax debts in the months leading up to the elections.
Loan Interest Reductions: In February 2024, the government announced reductions in loan interest for pensioners.
Paid Internship Programs: The Minister of Education, Science and Youth announced a paid internship program for students in February 2024.
Salary Increases in Education: Pre-election salary increases were recorded in the education sector.
The report also noted that the recent sanctions imposed by the US on Georgian legislative and executive authorities will likely influence the pre-election campaign's nature.
The document outlined several main trends in the political landscape ahead of the October 26, 2024, parliamentary elections:
Anti-Western Messaging: Alongside efforts to strengthen ties with the European Union, anti-Western and Eurosceptic messages have become more prevalent in Georgia.
Foreign Influence Law: Despite significant domestic and international opposition, the Georgian Parliament passed the "Foreign Influence Transparency" law in May 2024, overcoming a presidential veto. The law is expected to negatively impact local observation organizations monitoring the elections.
Sanctions and Human Rights Violations: The report mentions the US-imposed sanctions on Georgian officials and outlines concerns about human rights violations, including legislative amendments targeting the LGBTQI community.
Electoral Legislation Changes: Despite some reforms, ISFED notes that recommendations from international bodies and local monitoring organizations have not been fully implemented.
Deteriorating Media Environment: The media environment has reportedly worsened, with increased polarization on social media.
ISFED's report called for greater attention to the issues raised and urged both government agencies and Parliament to consider the recommendations provided to ensure a fair and democratic election process.
