Georgia: EU calls on authorities to urgently revert to the EU path, enlargement conclusions say
In the latest enlargement conclusions, adopted on 17 December, European Affairs ministers reaffirmed the European Union’s readiness to support the Georgian people on their European path.
At the same time, they reiterated the “EU’s serious concern” regarding the course of action taken by the Georgian government, including the adoption of the law on transparency of foreign influence and other legislation which “runs counter to the values and principles upon which the EU is founded and which represent backsliding on the steps set out in the Commission’s recommendation for candidate status”.
The Council recalled that such a course of action jeopardises Georgia’s European path, de facto leading to a halt of the accession process and regretted the Georgian government’s recent decision to suspend the country’s EU accession process until 2028.
The Council strongly condemned the violence against peaceful protesters, media representatives and politicians. “The Georgian authorities must respect the right to freedom of assembly and of expression, and refrain from using force. All acts of violence must be investigated and those responsible held accountable,” the conclusions say.
The Council called on the Georgian authorities to urgently revert to the EU path and adopt democratic, comprehensive and sustainable reforms, in line with the core principles of European integration.
The Council also said it was deeply concerned about the backsliding in the areas of democracy, rule of law and fundamental rights. “Georgia needs to guarantee the full respect for fundamental rights, including the freedom of expression and assembly, and the freedom, independence and pluralism of the media, as well as the rights of LGBTI persons,” the document says.
The conclusions also say Georgian authorities need to cease the intimidations, violence and discrimination against Georgia’s civil society representatives, political leaders, civil activists and journalists, calling on them to take concrete actions to overcome the increasing polarisation.
“The Council regrets the backsliding in the functioning of the judiciary, and the growing lack of independence of institutions in general,” the conclusions say. “Substantial efforts towards a comprehensive reform of the judiciary, in line with European standards and recommendations of the Venice Commission, are still required. Of equal importance is the development of a strong track record in fighting corruption and organised crime, and the implementation of deoligarchisation actions.”
On the economic criteria, the Council noted the moderate level of preparation and limited progress in developing a functioning market economy.
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