EU Condemns Democratic Backsliding and Human Rights Violations in Georgia
By Liza Mchedlidze
Friday, September 26, 2025
The European Union has voiced strong concern over the state of democracy and human rights in Georgia, urging the government to reverse its current course and uphold international commitments.
Speaking on behalf of the EU and its member states, a representative highlighted "the ongoing democratic backsliding in Georgia," pointing to a series of arrests earlier this month. Between September 1 and 3, twenty-one people were charged with offenses ranging from organizing or participating in group violence to illegal drug possession and bodily harm.
The EU acknowledged the pardoning of two opposition leaders but noted that other political figures remain behind bars and that peaceful demonstrations have been met with force. "The Georgian authorities must respect the right to freedom of assembly and association, and of expression, investigate all allegations of excessive use of force by law enforcement officials, and to hold to account those responsible," the statement said. It further stressed the importance of judicial independence and the right to a fair trial.
The bloc underscored the role of civil society, warning against government pressure on NGOs. "Recalling that a functioning civil society is a crucial component of any democratic system, we call on Georgia to ensure that its vibrant civil society is able to function without restrictions, and actively, inclusively and meaningfully engage in the policymaking process." The EU also called on authorities to reverse the freezing of bank accounts belonging to seven independent civil society organizations and to fully implement the recommendations of the Venice Commission.
Concerns were also raised about transparency in upcoming elections. "We regret the lack of invitation from Georgia to the Congress of Regional and Local Authorities to observe its upcoming elections, and the lack of a timely invitation to the OSCE/ODIHR observation mission," the statement continued.
The EU made clear that Georgia's European future hinges on a change in course. "We underline the EU's readiness to support the Georgian people's European aspirations, and the country's path towards accession should the Georgian authorities reverse their present course of action."
In addition to EU member states, several partners aligned themselves with the statement, including Albania, Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, San Marino, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom.
