The European Union has expressed concerns over a decline in human rights and democratic standards in Georgia following the country’s parliamentary elections on October 26.
Speaking to the press in Brussels, Annita Hipper, spokesperson for the European Commission for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, warned that the current trajectory of the Georgian government “threatens the country’s European aspirations”.
“Georgia is immersed in a deep political crisis, and we see a deterioration in human rights after the parliamentary elections,” Hipper said. “The current course of the Georgian government poses a threat to Georgia’s European path.”
In response to the developments, the EU has taken a series of measures, including reducing political contacts, freezing financial assistance to the government, and redirecting those funds to civil society initiatives. Additionally, diplomatic visa policies have been adjusted as part of the EU’s broader response.
“We continue to monitor the situation in Georgia, to remain engaged, and to stand by the Georgian people,” Hipper added.
