“Georgian authorities need to start by repealing laws that contradict the stated goal of joining the EU, particularly laws that restrict fundamental rights and freedoms,” Vice-President of the European Commission, Věra Jourová, stated at the ongoing debate on Georgia in the European Parliament.

As she noted, the October 26 elections are decisive for Georgia’s European path.

“On the 26th of October, over 3 million Georgians will cast their vote to elect a new parliament. These parliamentary elections are pivotal for Georgia’s EU path. They will also be a critical test for Georgia’s democracy. Last December when Georgia was granted EU candidate status we hoped this would be a strong incentive for the government to undertake significant reform towards opening EU negotiations. Instead, in recent months, the governing authorities have proposed laws that have moved the country away from this goal. Despite massive protests, the foreign influence law, which stifles civil society and media organizations, was re-introduced and adopted. Other proposals that discriminate against and stigmatize the LGBTQ community and weakened the independence of state institutions have also been put forward. At the same time, anti-EU rhetoric has grown louder.

First, I want to thank you, the European Parliament, for being vocal about the situation in Georgia and calling strongly for EU action in response to the Georgian government’s unprecedented, antidemocratic actions and rhetoric. The EU has responded with appropriate measures, and Georgia’s EU accession process has been halted. Political contacts have been downgraded, EU support through the European peace facility, where thirty million Euro, is on hold while the assistance portfolio is being reviewed. We have repeatedly called on the Georgian authorities to reverse their course of action. And we have increased our communication towards the Georgian citizens. Many of you have echoed such calls. These measures can be reversed, and the solution is simple if there is political will. Georgian authorities need to start by repealing laws that contradict the stated goal of joining the EU, particularly laws that restrict fundamental rights and freedoms. Second comment: we have also heard false accusations and blatant disinformation about the EU and its values spread by ruling party officials, including the prime minister and members of the parliament. Claims that the EU and the West are trying to open a second front in Georgia or seeking the Ukrainization of the country are unacceptable. False and harmful to our relations, these narratives only serve Russia and its propaganda. The EU will continue to expose such false narratives and respond to anti-democratic actions. And finally, the upcoming parliamentary elections will be a strong test for Georgia’s democracy.

The electoral campaign has already been marred by troubling statements and actions from the ruling party, including promises to ban opposition parties and efforts to restrict civil society and the media. Such tactics resembled those of authoritarian regimes. If these measures are implemented, They would clearly contradict Georgia’s stated goal to join the EU and the values and principles that underpin EU membership. The EU will closely follow the conduct of these upcoming elections. It is our expectation that they will be peaceful, free and fair, truly reflecting the will of the Georgian people. The EU’s door remains open, but the Georgian authorities need first to re-align with EU values and norms and to recommit to Georgia’s EU path. We are ready to support and work with all Georgians on their path towards EU membership,” Věra Jourová declared.