EU spokesperson says ‘no signs’ of democratic improvement in Georgia

The European Commission’s Lead Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Anita Hipper, has said the European Union sees “no signs” of improvement in the situation in Georgia in terms of democracy, freedom and core European values.

Hipper made the remarks in response to a question about recently adopted laws in Georgia that critics describe as repressive towards civil society and the media. She was also asked about statements by members of the ruling Georgian Dream party suggesting the aim was to halt EU assistance to civil society and media organisations.

“I am not a psychologist, but this is a classic tactic of blame-shifting and projection. Unfortunately, this is exactly what we are seeing now in Georgia. We see no signs of improvement in the current situation when it comes to democracy, freedom and the values the EU supports, whether regarding civil society or freedom of expression,” Hipper said.

Addressing the broader political context, Hipper noted that the EU had already downgraded the level of political relations with the Georgian authorities.

“As you know, we have reduced the level of our political engagement. We have also suspended all direct assistance to the Georgian Government and revoked visa-free travel for diplomats, officials and their family members,” she said.

Hipper stressed that the EU would continue to support the Georgian people while considering further measures toward the authorities.

“We will always stand by the people of Georgia, and we are also considering additional steps with regard to the Georgian authorities, with the aim of bringing the country back onto the democratic path,” she added.