Sweden suspends cooperation with Georgian authorities amid democratic concerns

In a recent announcement, Sweden’s Minister for Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, Benjamin Dousa, confirmed that the Swedish government is halting all direct cooperation with Georgian authorities due to growing concerns over the country’s democratic trajectory.

This decision comes in light of reported irregularities in Georgia’s parliamentary elections, which took place on October 26 and sparked criticism from both local opposition parties and international observers.

“The government is pausing all bilateral cooperation with Georgian authorities,” Dousa stated on X.

However, he emphasized that the Swedish government remains open to resuming cooperation if Georgia recommits to democratic principles and strengthens its alignment with European Union values.

“At the same time, we have increased support for non-governmental civil society by SEK 25 million,” Dousa added.

This aid is part of Sweden’s ongoing annual assistance, which amounts to approximately 200 million SEK, aimed at supporting democracy, transparency, and human rights in the region.