EU condemns Georgia’s democratic backsliding, calls for release of detainees

EU High Representative/Vice-President Kaja Kallas and Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos have issued a strong statement condemning the Georgian authorities for further drifting away from democratic principles.

The statement criticizes the rushed adoption of amendments to the Code on Administrative Offences, Criminal Code, and the Law on Assemblies and Manifestations, warning that these changes will severely impact Georgian society by undermining freedom of expression, assembly, and media freedom.

“These developments mark a serious setback for Georgia’s democratic development and fall short of any expectations for an EU candidate country,” the statement reads.

The EU officials called on the Georgian authorities to suspend these measures, avoid escalating tensions, and await an assessment from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR).

The statement also condemns the government’s alleged intimidation and violent tactics against protesters, journalists, and opposition figures. It highlights the case of detained journalist Mzia Amaglobeli, who is currently on a hunger strike, calling her a symbol of courage for all unjustly detained individuals.

“We call on the Georgian authorities to release all journalists, activists, and political detainees held unjustly,” the statement urges, emphasizing the need for dialogue between the government, opposition, and civil society.

The EU reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Georgia’s democratic and European aspirations, urging the government to implement OSCE/ODIHR recommendations on electoral reforms without delay.