State Department delegation: Democracy requires political opposition that engages with state institutions to represent citizens who voted for it

“A functional democracy requires a political opposition that engages with state institutions to represent the interests of the citizens who voted for it,” reads a statement published by the U.S. Embassy, concerning meetings held between representatives of the U.S. delegation and opposition leaders from May 25 to 28.

As the Embassy’s statement notes, political stability and genuine opposition representation are among the factors that make Georgia a credible partner for American investment, security cooperation, and long-term strategic partnership.

“The U.S. delegation held in-depth discussions with representatives of Georgia’s principal opposition parties, including the United National Movement, the Coalition for Change, Strong Georgia–Lelo, and the party Gakharia for Georgia. The delegation heard concerns regarding the treatment of opposition parties since October 2024, including the case currently before the Constitutional Court and the prevailing political climate. The delegation shared the United States’ position on opposition participation in Georgia’s democratic institutions. A functional democracy requires a political opposition that engages with state institutions to represent the interests of the citizens who voted for it. Political stability and genuine opposition representation are among the factors that make Georgia a credible partner for American investment, security cooperation, and long-term strategic partnership. The United States is committed to constructive engagement with all serious political actors who have a stake in their country’s stability, sovereignty and prosperity,” the statement reads.

The U.S. Embassy has also published a separate statement concerning the meeting between the State Department delegation and the Georgian government.