Resolution on the case of Elene Khoshtaria and political prisoners under the Georgian Dream Regime

The European Parliament adopted by 438 votes to 37, with 81 abstentions, a resolution on the case of Elene Khoshtaria and political prisoners under the Georgian Dream Regime.

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

The Georgian authorities have escalated their repression of political opposition and civil society, particularly since the October 2024 parliamentary elections. Parliament expressed serious concern over the expanding political, economic and security footprint of Russia, China and Iran in Georgia, as confirmed in numerous reports, and which is also reflected in the country’s deteriorating approach to human rights.

Several opposition leaders have been detained, including Elene Khoshtaria, a leading Coalition for Change figure, who was detained in September 2025 after writing ‘Russian Dream’ on an election banner of the ruling party, and faces criminal proceedings based on trumped-up charges without credible evidence, carrying up to 15 years’ imprisonment. Reports indicate that Khoshtaria has been subjected to degrading treatment in detention and that her health condition requires specialised medical care.

Parliament strongly condemned the politically motivated detention of Khoshtaria and all others targeted for exercising their freedom of expression and assembly or peaceful dissent, and the systematic persecution of political opponents, journalists and activists by the Georgian Dream regime. It demanded her immediate and unconditional release, and that of others detained for politically motivated reasons or for the peaceful exercise of their fundamental rights.

The Georgian authorities are urged to repeal all restrictive laws, cease using pre-trial detention for political repression, and ensure judicial independence and due process.

While reaffirming its unwavering support for the Georgian people and their commitment to a democratic European future, Parliament encouraged the Commission and the Member States to support and provide protection to Georgian activists, journalists and opposition figures at risk.

Lastly, the EU and its Member States are called on to impose targeted sanctions, as well as an EU-wide visa ban, on representatives of the regime and its enablers responsible for politically motivated arrests, prosecutions and violence against the democratic opposition, dissidents, protesters and journalists.