Biden raises alarm on “democratic backsliding” in Georgia, calls for repeal of restrictive laws

US President Joe Biden on Tuesday voiced concerns about what he describes as “democratic backsliding” in Georgia, urging the government to uphold democratic standards and address reported irregularities in the recent October 26 parliamentary elections. In a statement, Biden emphasized that the United States has “consistently supported” Georgia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and Euro-Atlantic aspirations but is now troubled by recent legislative actions and election issues that appear to undermine fundamental freedoms.

Referring to legislation echoing restrictive Russian laws – in reference to the law on transparency on foreign influence, initiated and adopted by the Georgian Dream Government this year – Biden criticized measures that “limit the operational space” for civil society groups and restrict freedoms of assembly and expression. Additionally, he raised concerns over documented incidents of administrative resource misuse and voter intimidation, questioning the legitimacy of the recent election, which “independent monitors did not say were free and fair”.

Biden called on the Georgian government to launch a transparent investigation into the election’s irregularities, repeal the contentious law and engage in “immediate, inclusive dialogue” with all political factions to restore electoral integrity. He concluded by underscoring that adherence to the rule of law and respect for fundamental freedoms remain crucial to Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic ambitions.