Georgia's EU Dream Hits a Roadblock

Georgia's path to European Union (EU) membership has encountered a significant obstacle. The EU's latest progress report on the country paints a grim picture, suggesting Georgia is moving away from, rather than towards, EU integration.

A Devastating Report

The EU's ambassador to Georgia, Pawel Herczynski, described the report's findings as "devastating" for Georgia's aspirations. While other countries like Montenegro, Albania, Ukraine, and Moldova were commended for their advancements, Georgia did not fare as well.

Serious Democratic Backsliding

The EU accused Georgia of "serious democratic backsliding," indicating that the country is failing to meet the EU's democratic standards. The report went as far as to label Georgia a "candidate country in name only."

A History of Criticism

This is not Georgia's first encounter with criticism. Once a beacon of democracy in the region, Georgia has been backsliding since the onset of the war in Ukraine. The ruling party, Georgian Dream, has been accused of suppressing opposition politicians and protesters. Despite freezing accession talks with the EU, the party maintains its desire to join.

Government's Response

The Georgian government has pushed back, alleging that the EU is attempting to impose its "ideological and political dictates" on the country. Shalva Papuashvili, the speaker of Georgia's parliament, asserted that Georgia remains committed to its EU ambitions. However, the EU remains unconvinced by Georgia's actions.

Escalating Tensions

Tensions are rising. Last week, Georgian Dream announced plans to sue the country's three main opposition parties, claiming they pose a "real threat to the constitutional order." The opposition parties have dismissed the lawsuit as politically motivated, further tarnishing Georgia's democratic image.