The Central Election Commission (CEC) has published detailed information on the voting procedures for Georgian citizens residing abroad.

The CEC emphasizes the importance of accurately informing Georgian expatriates about legislative regulations and the timely establishment of election precincts. Elections for the Parliament of Georgia are scheduled for October 26, 2024. Ensuring fair access to voting for citizens abroad is a top priority for the Georgian election administration.

To participate in the elections, Georgian citizens living abroad must either be registered in the consular register or registered according to Georgian legislation applicable in their location. Information about consular registration can be found at www.geoconsul.gov.ge.

Citizens not registered in the consular system can register for election purposes at their local diplomatic representation or precinct election commission once election precincts are established, up until October 7. Polling stations abroad will be set up no later than September 26 and must accommodate no fewer than 50 and no more than 3,000 voters, based on consular registration data from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

It is important to note that participation in the elections is contingent upon completing the registration process outlined above. The election legislation does not allow for alternative methods of registration or voting for citizens living abroad, including the opening of polling stations based solely on requests from expatriates.

The CEC collaborates closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to facilitate voter participation in the October 26 elections, following the practices established in previous years.

“Comprehensive information about the electoral rights of Georgians abroad and their participation in elections is available on the official website (cesko.ge) and social media channels. Citizens can contact the CEC for assistance regarding their electoral rights through the website, social media, or by calling +995 32 2 51 00 51. The election administration urges all parties to avoid disseminating misinformation about voting procedures for citizens abroad and will continue to provide updates to ensure compliance with legal requirements,” the CEC statement reads.