EU raises concerns over Georgia's human rights, warns of potential visa-free suspension

The European Union has reiterated concerns over Georgia’s compliance with the terms of its visa-free travel agreement, issuing a public infographic and statement summarizing the current status and potential risks.

According to the EU Delegation to Georgia, visa-free travel for Georgian citizens is directly tied to the country’s respect for fundamental rights—a condition evaluated annually by the European Commission. The latest Commission report from December 2024 highlighted “serious concerns” regarding the state of human rights in Georgia and called for urgent corrective measures from the Georgian government.

In January 2025, as a first step, the EU suspended visa-free travel for holders of diplomatic and service passports. The EU has now requested an official update from Georgian authorities on the actions taken to address the Commission’s recommendations, with a deadline set for the end of August.

“If there is no progress, full visa suspension may follow,” the EU warned.

The European Commission’s recommendations to Georgia include strengthening anti-corruption frameworks and ensuring the protection of fundamental freedoms and human rights.