Georgian diplomats criticize government’s EU stance, cite strategic risks

Forty-four employees of Georgia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs have publicly condemned the government’s decision to remove EU accession negotiations from the national agenda until 2028. In a joint statement, the diplomats argued that this move contradicts Georgia’s strategic interests and violates constitutional mandates.

The statement, released on social media on Thursday evening, emphasizes the diplomats’ duty to safeguard Georgia’s national interests and uphold its Constitution. It asserts that Georgian diplomacy has historically worked toward integration with European and Euro-Atlantic structures, reflecting the will and historical choice of the Georgian people.

The diplomats warned of the negative repercussions of delaying EU membership talks, especially at a time when the EU is expanding due to shifting international political dynamics. They stressed that rejecting this opportunity could isolate Georgia from its Western partners and expose it to heightened regional threats, particularly given the volatile international security environment.

’’The stalling of the accession negotiation process will lead to the isolation of the country. Without the support of the Western partners, Georgia remains face to face with threats that are especially intensified in the background of the ongoing processes in the international and security environment,” the diplomats stressed.
The statement specifically criticized the government’s decision as a breach of Article 78 of the Georgian Constitution, which mandates state authorities to ensure integration into European and Euro-Atlantic structures.

’’We remain committed to the course of European and Euro-Atlantic integration of Georgia,” the statement says.

The ruling Georgian Dream party recently announced plans to delay negotiations for EU membership until 2028, citing a desire to focus on domestic reforms without ’external pressure.’ The move has sparked widespread criticism from opposition parties, civil society, and international observers, who accuse the government of abandoning Georgia’s pro-European course.