A new report from the US Helsinki Commission, titled Preparing for Russia’s Long-Term Threat, expresses growing concerns about Georgia’s political direction as the government increasingly aligns with Russia, distancing itself from its historically pro-Western stance. The report highlights that this shift, led by the ruling Georgian Dream party, is in direct conflict with the strong pro-European sentiment among the Georgian population.
The commission emphasizes that “Georgia has long been considered a pro-Western stalwart in the South Caucasus, with aspirations for membership in the European Union and NATO.” However, added that recent actions by the government signal a shift toward a more illiberal and pro-Russian orientation. “This shift has been marked by crackdowns on opposition figures and civil society organizations,” the report notes, which has deepened the divide between the Georgian government and its people.
It is also emphasized that despite the government’s actions, the majority of Georgians remain committed to Western integration.
According to the report, this was evident during the large-scale protests in spring 2024 against the Russian-style so called foreign agent law. “As many as 300,000 Georgians took to the streets,” the report highlights, showcasing the people’s resistance to the government’s policies.
The report also warns of the geopolitical dangers associated with Georgia’s political shift. “Russia continues to host garrisons in Georgia, while the Georgian Dream government grows increasingly Russia-friendly,” it notes, pointing to the potential instability in the region as a result.
In light of these developments, the commission recommends that the US adopt a dual-track strategy, applying conditional pressure on the Georgian government while supporting democratic movements within the country. “US support must be contingent on democratic reforms and a clear pro-Western alignment,” the report suggests, in line with the demands of the Georgian people.
The report also highlights the importance of legislative initiatives like the bipartisan MEGOBARI Act, spearheaded by Helsinki Commission Chairman Joe Wilson, as a potential model for future US policy toward Georgia, underscoring the need to tie US assistance to democratic reforms and the protection of civil liberties.
