IRI Poll shows political threat from Russia, concerns with presence of Russian citizens, support for EU,NATO integration

A new nationwide poll conducted in Georgia by the International Republican Institute’s (IRI) Center for Insights in Survey Research (CISR) has shown a perceived political threat from Russia, concerns with the presence of Russian citizens in Georgia, and high levels of political polarization, with 77 percent naming Russia as the “greatest political threat” to the country. 

 

“Given the Russian occupation of Georgia and other threatening behavior in the region, people overwhelmingly perceive Russia to be an existential threat,” said Stephen Nix, Director of Eurasia for IRI.

 

The poll also found that 51 percent of people felt the country’s politics were becoming more polarized.

 

“In its decision to recommend EU candidacy for Georgia, the European Commission emphasizes that additional steps are necessary to address political polarization,” said Nix. “As of now, more work needs to be done throughout all levels of government, among political parties, and within parliament to address this problem.”

 

The polls also said  64 percent “fully support” the country’s integration into NATO and 73 percent into EU, while 14 percent of respondents “somewhat supported” the country’s integration into NATO and 13 percent into the EU. 

 

This survey was conducted on behalf of IRI’s Center for Insights in Survey Research by Dr. Rasa Alisauskiene of the public and market research company Baltic Surveys/The Gallup Organization between September 14 and October 14, 2023. The fieldwork was conducted by the Institute of Polling and Marketing. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews in respondents’ homes. The sample consists of 1,200 Georgians aged 18+ and eligible to vote.