EU High Representative and Commissioner for Enlargement: ‘EU stands with Georgian people’

The European Union has reaffirmed its unwavering support for the Georgian people and their aspirations for a European future. In a joint statement, EU High Representative Kaja Kallas and Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos emphasized the bloc’s commitment to Georgia’s democratic path, while expressing regret over the Georgian government’s recent decision to halt EU accession talks and reject financial assistance until 2028.

The statement criticized the ruling Georgian Dream party’s decision as a departure from the European aspirations embedded in Georgia’s Constitution and supported by the majority of its citizens. “This marks a significant shift from the policies of previous Georgian governments, which upheld the European path,” the statement reads. The EU noted that democratic backsliding in Georgia had already stalled the accession process earlier this year, resulting in the suspension of financial aid to the authorities.

The statement emphasized that the EU strongly condemns the use of violence against peaceful demonstrators, who have taken to the streets to demand a recommitment to the European integration process. “The Georgian authorities must respect the right to freedom of assembly and expression, and refrain from using force against protesters, politicians, and media representatives,” the statement urged, calling for thorough investigations into acts of violence and accountability for those responsible.

Highlighting ongoing concerns, Kallas and Kos pointed to irregularities in the recent parliamentary elections as evidence of Georgia’s democratic decline. The bloc looks forward to the OSCE/ODIHR’s final report and recommendations on these irregularities to guide future actions.

“The EU stands with the Georgian people and their choice for a European future,” the statement concluded. “The door to the EU remains open, but the responsibility lies with the Georgian leadership to return to European values and reinvigorate the path to accession.”