Estonian Parliament adopts statement supporting democracy in Georgia

The Riigikogu, Estonia’s parliament, has adopted a statement urging the global community to take decisive actions to protect and support Georgia’s legitimate President, civil society, and pro-democracy protesters. The “Statement of the Riigikogu in Support of the People of Georgia” was supported by 59 members, with 9 voting against it.

The statement reaffirms Estonia’s commitment to the principle that every nation has the right to democratically determine its path and alliances. It highlights Estonia’s long-standing support for Georgia’s development and sovereignty while condemning Russian Federation activities that polarize Georgian society and interfere in its democratic processes.

The Riigikogu expressed concern over the conduct of Georgia’s recent parliamentary elections, stating that they occurred in an atmosphere of “violence and intimidation” and failed to reflect the free will of the Georgian people. The statement accuses Georgia’s ruling party, Georgian Dream, of relying on fraudulent results and Russian support to consolidate control, suppress the opposition, and stifle civil society.

Estonia refuses to recognize the legitimacy of the Georgian parliament and government formed under these conditions, instead affirming its recognition of Salome Zourabichvili as the legitimate President of Georgia. The statement supports her efforts to resolve the country’s constitutional crisis.

The Riigikogu calls for:

* New parliamentary elections to restore democracy.
* An end to violence, repression, and the release of all political prisoners.
* European Union sanctions against Georgian politicians and officials responsible for violent crackdowns on protests and persecution of civil society.
* Limited communication with Georgia’s current government until free and fair elections are held.
* Support for Georgian civil society and independent media under threat.
The statement concludes with a strong solidarity with the Georgian people defending their human rights, democracy, and aspirations for European integration.