EU Ambassador Paweł Herczyński has voiced serious concerns from the business community about the ongoing unrest in Georgia, urging the ruling Georgian Dream party to de-escalate tensions. His remarks came after a meeting with Georgian business representatives, organized by the European Business Association.
“Business is deeply concerned by this development. We call on the ruling party to de-escalate and end the use of excessive and unlawful force against peaceful protesters, media representatives, and opposition leaders, which has grave consequences for all Georgian citizens and the Georgian economy,” Herczyński stated.
The protests, now in their sixteenth day, are in response to the Georgian Dream party’s decision not to prioritize EU membership negotiations until the end of 2028. Demonstrations have taken place in the capital and across the regions, drawing widespread criticism from international observers and local activists.
Since the protests began on November 28, authorities have detained over 400 demonstrators, including more than 30 individuals who face significant prison sentences. Among those arrested are several prominent public figures.
Notably, no police officers have been charged despite allegations of excessive force, including documented cases of journalists being assaulted during live broadcasts.