European Parliament resolution condemns “democratic backsliding” in Georgia

The European Parliament has passed a resolution expressing concerns over the state of democracy in Georgia, with 495 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) voting in favor, 73 against, and 86 abstaining.

The resolution highlights the Parliament’s regret over what it describes as “democratic backsliding” in the country. It calls on the European Union to impose personal sanctions against Bidzina Ivanishvili, the Honorary Chair and the founder of the ruling Georgian Dream party, along with others accused of “undermining democratic processes”.

Among the issues addressed in the resolution are the release of former President Mikheil Saakashvili and the ongoing discussions surrounding visa liberalization for Georgian citizens. The Parliament also urged the Georgian government to impose sanctions against Russia for invading Ukraine.

The resolution condemns recent laws concerning transparency of foreign influence and family values and protection of minors. These, it asserts, serve as instruments for the government to restrict freedom of expression, censor media outlets, and discriminate against marginalized groups. The European Parliament emphasized that such legislation was incompatible with the values and democratic principles upheld by the EU, “undermining” Georgia’s ambitions for EU membership and tarnishing its international reputation.

Once a beacon of democratic progress in the region, Georgia has been described as being in “free fall” concerning its democratic institutions. The Parliament’s resolution specifically cites Ivanishvili’s re-emergence in politics as a “significant factor contributing to the current political crisis”, with calls for immediate sanctions against him due to his alleged role in deteriorating political conditions and fostering closer ties with Russia.

Furthermore, the European Parliament has urged the EU Council and its democratic partners to hold accountable those responsible for political violence and anti-Western disinformation campaigns. It welcomed recent personal sanctions imposed by the United States on officials linked to the ruling Georgian Dream party.

The resolution also stresses the need for rapid assessment by the European Commission regarding Georgia’s adherence to visa liberalization requirements, particularly concerning fundamental rights and recent legislative changes.

In a humanitarian plea, the Parliament reiterated calls for the “immediate and unconditional release” of Saakashvili, emphasizing the Georgian government’s responsibility for his health and safety.

The resolution concludes with a strong condemnation of “increasing Russian influence” in Georgia, urging the government to align with EU foreign policy and take decisive actions against Russian aggression, including imposing sanctions and reaffirming its commitment to the non-recognition of occupied territories.

The GD officials have condemned the resolution as “absurd” and “full of nonsense”.