“Banning immigrants from participating in politics in any form constitutes a gross violation of the fundamental principles enshrined in our Constitution,” stated Irakli Pavlenishvili, a member of the United National Movement (UNM).

According to Pavlenishvili, immigrants play a vital role in Georgia’s economy.

“At least 13% of Georgia’s economy is sustained by money transferred by immigrants to their families. To prohibit expatriates from exercising their political rights, despite their significant economic contribution, is both unjust and immoral. It is unjust when immigrants, who have such a substantial impact on our economy, are denied any voice in politics,” he argued.

On November 17, Georgian Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili announced a forthcoming change to the voting process for non-resident citizens. The new rule will require voters to cast their ballot in their homeland once every four years. An amendment to Georgia’s Election Code reflecting this change has been introduced to Parliament.