EU warns Georgia against return to authoritarianism

The European Commission and the European Parliament have called on the Georgian government and political parties to withdraw controversial proposals that restrict civil liberties, such as the “pro-Russian laws”. If necessary, Brussels has threatened to cut free travel facilities and EU subsidies. 

The call comes at a crucial time, as Georgia holds parliamentary elections in two weeks and hopes to accelerate negotiations on EU accession. Adherence to a pro-European course is seen by Brussels as a condition for further progress towards membership. The European Commission has already indicated that Georgia must implement 12 reforms to strengthen the rule of law, press freedom, and democratic reforms. 

Although Georgia was granted EU candidate status last year, the European Parliament stressed in a resolution that the currently ruling Georgian Dream party – which seems set to win the elections – is pursuing an increasingly authoritarian course. 

Tensions over the pro-Russian laws have been rising sharply since early last year between pro-Moscow and pro-EU parties. Although the legislation was later withdrawn after major protests, it remains a hot topic in the run-up to the elections.

Despite these internal divisions, public support for EU membership remains strong in Georgia, especially among young people and pro-European groups. The October 26 elections are therefore seen as a decisive moment for the future of the country. The opposition parties have formed an alliance under the leadership of pro-European President Salome Zourabichvili in a bid to defeat the pro-Russian Georgian Dream party.

The European Union has repeatedly stressed the importance of free and fair elections. If this is not the case, the EU threatens possible sanctions, including the suspension of visa-free access for Georgian citizens and the withdrawal of financial aid packages.

Georgia’s democratic backsliding is a major concern in Brussels and Strasbourg. In Georgia itself, public opinion is divided. While many citizens support EU integration, there are also strong pro-Russian currents within certain political parties. This is causing political polarization and threatening the country’s stability. The outcome of the elections will determine whether Georgia will continue on its European course or slide towards authoritarianism.