Georgian expert slams Government’s refusal to invite OSCE observers to local elections

Expert Nika Chitadze has criticized the Georgian government for refusing to invite the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) to observe the upcoming local elections, calling it a clear sign of democratic deterioration.

“For the first time, ODIHR will not be able to attend elections in Georgia. Since the introduction of multi-party elections in 1990, OSCE observers have always been present. This is an unprecedented and deeply troubling development,” Chitadze told Front News.

He emphasized that while the OSCE does not interfere in Georgia’s legislative processes, it operates within its mandate to assess the state of democracy and human rights in member states.

“The OSCE does not meddle in Georgia’s lawmaking; it acts within its competence to evaluate the democratic and human rights environment in its member countries, including Georgia, which has been a member since 1992,” Chitadze explained. “This government is now blatantly ignoring the interests of one of the world’s leading democratic institutions.”

Chitadze warned that the decision not to invite international observers is a deliberate step by the government to manipulate the 2025 municipal elections. “It shows a non-constructive attitude and a firm intention to falsify the vote,” he said. “This is yet another example of Georgia moving backward in terms of democracy.”

The expert’s comments follow a June 7 statement from ODIHR expressing 'deep concern' over recent developments in Georgia, including the adoption of legislation restricting civil society, the arrest of peaceful protesters, and the sentencing of opposition leaders.

“Civil and political rights are a lynchpin of democracy and the rule of law,” ODIHR Director Maria Telalian said, urging Georgian authorities to repeal restrictive laws and to respect civil liberties.

ODIHR also condemned the government's decision not to invite the mission to observe the upcoming elections, noting that this breaks a two-decade-long tradition of cooperation. “The Georgian government’s refusal marks a significant departure from its consistent practice over the last twenty years,” the statement read.

Despite these setbacks, Telalian reaffirmed ODIHR’s commitment to support Georgia in upholding its OSCE obligations: “We remain dedicated to helping strengthen democratic governance and human rights for all.”