Tensions between Georgia and the European Union have escalated following the adoption of a series of legislative changes that Brussels describes as repressive and a major setback for democracy.
The EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, and European Commissioner for Enlargement, Marat Kos, have criticised the Georgian government for undermining fundamental freedoms, warning that the country is moving further away from democratic norms expected of an EU candidate.
EU Criticism of Legislative Crackdown
In a statement issued on 7 February, Kallas and Kos condemned the Georgian authorities for the rushed adoption of amendments to the Administrative Offences Code, the Criminal Code, and the Law on Assemblies and Demonstrations. They argued that these measures will have far-reaching consequences for Georgian society by severely restricting freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, and media freedom.
“These developments mark a serious setback for Georgia’s democratic development and fall short of any expectations of an EU candidate country,” the statement read.
The EU urged the Georgian government to suspend the implementation of these laws, refrain from escalating tensions, and await the assessment of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), as requested by the Georgian Public Defender.
Georgian Parliament Pushes Ahead Without Opposition
The crisis in Georgia has been unfolding since autumn 2024, following allegations of electoral fraud and the government’s announcement that it would suspend progress towards EU integration. On 5 February, the Georgian Parliament—now without opposition MPs—passed a legislative package that grants authorities sweeping powers to limit public gatherings and detain demonstrators. The process was completed in just two days, drawing further criticism from EU officials and civil society groups.
These new laws follow earlier restrictions introduced in December 2024, which prohibited protesters from covering their faces, using lasers or fireworks, and imposed harsher penalties for blocking roads and creating graffiti. Critics argue that the government is systematically dismantling democratic checks and balances, particularly in light of its move to strip 49 opposition MPs of their mandates.
Crackdown on Journalists and Civil Society
The EU statement also accused the Georgian government of using intimidation tactics and violence to silence dissent. It specifically referenced the case of detained journalist Mzia Amaglobeli, who has gone on hunger strike in protest against her imprisonment.
“The case of Mzia Amaglobeli is yet another example of how the authorities are treating journalists and anyone who speaks freely. Mzia, currently on hunger strike, is a symbol of courage for all those unjustly detained,” the statement said.
Kallas and Kos called on the Georgian authorities to release all political detainees, including journalists and activists, and to ensure open dialogue with opposition parties and civil society. They also emphasised the need for accountability for those responsible for violence against protesters and members of the press.
Georgian Government’s Response: Dismissing EU Concerns
In response, Georgian Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili rejected the EU’s criticisms as unfounded and accused Brussels of double standards. He argued that European institutions were disregarding OSCE election reports in other contexts while insisting that Georgia adhere to them.
“It is shocking that instead of recognising their mistakes, condemning violent protests, and ensuring financial transparency of the European Endowment for Democracy (EED), we are hearing baseless accusations against Georgia,” Papuashvili wrote on social media.
The government has maintained that the new legislation is necessary to maintain public order, dismissing opposition claims that it represents a shift towards authoritarianism.
Georgia’s EU Prospects in Doubt
Despite mounting international criticism, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has insisted that Georgia remains committed to EU membership, reiterating his belief that the country can join the bloc by 2030. However, Brussels has made it clear that democratic backsliding could jeopardise Georgia’s candidate status.
The EU has stated its willingness to support efforts towards a “democratic, stable, and European future for Georgia,” but has also stressed that fundamental democratic principles must be upheld.
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