Resolution on the further deterioration of the political situation in Georgia

The European Parliament adopted by 400 votes to 63, with 81 abstentions, a resolution on the further deterioration of the political situation in Georgia.

The text adopted in plenary was tabled by the EPP, S&D, ECR, Renew and Greens/EFA groups.

Condemnation of the Georgian Dream party

As a reminder, Georgia was granted EU candidate status in December 2023. The country’s most recent parliamentary elections, however, were deemed neither free nor fair by the European Parliament, with Members calling for a re-run of the elections within the next year.

Parliament condemned the Georgian Dream party for violently repressing protesters, political opponents, and media, violating fundamental freedoms and human rights. It criticized the ruling party's abandonment of European integration and NATO aspirations, undermining democratic reforms. Parliament asserted that Georgia is under the control of an illegitimate regime, with EU integration efforts effectively suspended.

Members do not recognise the Georgian Dream party's self-proclaimed government, established through the fraudulent elections of October 2024. These elections failed to meet democratic standards and undermined public trust. Moreover, they called on the international community to join the boycott of the self-proclaimed Georgian authorities. Parliament, on the other hand, continues to recognise Salome Zourabichvili as Georgia’s legitimate President and praised her efforts to steer the country back toward democracy. It called for her representation at EU meetings.

Parliament urged that new parliamentary elections be held in Georgia in the coming months in a better electoral framework, under the supervision of an independent and impartial electoral administration.

Sanctions

Members called on the Council and the EU Member States to impose personal sanctions on the officials and political leaders in Georgia responsible for democratic backsliding, electoral fraud, human rights violations and the persecution of political opponents and activists. The Council’s decision to suspend visa-free travel for Georgian diplomats and officials was welcomed, but Members considered it as only a first step, which must be followed by tougher measures.

Fundamental rights and media freedom

Parliament condemned the enactment of draconian legislation that imposes unjustified restrictions on freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly, and demanded the annulment of such recently adopted repressive legislation. It urged the Georgian authorities to immediately and unconditionally release all individuals detained for peacefully exercising their fundamental rights to freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly, and to ensure prompt, thorough and impartial investigations into all allegations of unlawful and disproportionate use of force by the law enforcement agencies. Members emphasised the importance of fostering a democratic environment where media, civil society and the opposition can operate freely without fear of retaliation or censorship.

Suspension of EU financial support

The Commission’s decision to cease all budgetary support to the Georgian authorities and to suspend the initiation of any future investment projects is welcomed. Parliament urged further action, including suspending investment projects linked to the current regime.