Josep Borrell: Post-election developments in Georgia “very worrying”

High Representative Josep Borrell has expressed serious concerns regarding the developments in Georgia following the parliamentary elections held on October 26, describing the situation as “very worrying.”

In a statement released on Tuesday, Borrell says that international observers have reported numerous violations during the election campaign and on election day, leading them to conclude that the elections were neither free nor fair.

„I am asking for a transparent inquiry. The Central Election Commission of Georgia and relevant authorities must investigate irregularities, pressure, and intimidation on voters impacting public trust in the process, as reported by observers. Those irregularities must be addressed swiftly, transparently and independently,” Borrell stated.

He also noted that as an EU candidate country, Georgia must demonstrate its commitment to European values, starting with full transparency in the electoral process. He reiterated that the integrity of elections and the rule of law are fundamental to democracy and critical for Georgia’s path toward EU accession.

In response to the troubling circumstances, Borrell has called for an urgent meeting of the Political and Security Committee and has placed the issue on the agenda for the upcoming November Foreign Affairs Council.

Highlighting the determination of the Georgian people, who have consistently shown their commitment to democratic values and EU integration, Borrell said they deserve clarity regarding the electoral process.

“People of Georgia have been demonstrating for months their attachment to democratic values and their country advancing on the EU path. They deserve clarity on the election process, to have certainty about the legitimacy of the next government,” the High Representative stressed.

He called for peaceful protests and a measured government response, emphasizing the necessity to reverse any democratic backsliding and create an environment supportive of media, civil society, and opposition, all essential for a pluralistic democracy.