Tensions escalated after a committee of the European Parliament adopted a critical report on Georgia. The report speaks of serious democratic decline, increasing repression, and growing concerns about the government's direction.
The Georgian authorities accuse European politicians of spreading distortions, manipulation, and disinformation. According to the government, a negative image of the country is deliberately created to exert political pressure on Tbilisi.
Sanctions
The government also stated that European institutions are being used to attack the Georgian state, society, and national values. According to Tbilisi, the European Parliament thus crosses the line of normal political criticism.
Promotion
The report refers, among other things, to potential sanctions against Bidzina Ivanishvili and other individuals connected to the ruling Georgian Dream party. This led to additional outrage among Georgian leaders.
Travel restrictions
Furthermore, possible measures regarding visa-free travel between Georgia and the European Union are discussed. The debate caused major political unrest in Tbilisi, where the government described it as blackmail and pressure tactics.
The European Parliament states that the democratic situation in Georgia has further deteriorated recently. Concerns are mentioned about human rights, political freedoms, and the general direction in which the country is developing.
Distinction
At the same time, the report emphasizes support for the Georgian population and their desire to be part of a democratic and European Georgia. According to the document, European politicians thereby distinguish between the population and the current rulers.
The Foreign Affairs Committee of the European Parliament adopted the report with 53 votes in favor, 14 against, and 2 abstentions. This gave broad support for the critical stance towards the Georgian government within the committee.
The Georgian government ultimately rejected the entire report as detached from reality. Nevertheless, Tbilisi declared its readiness to continue cooperating with the European Union, as long as it is based on mutual respect and trust.