As reported in the joint statement of the EU High Representative Kaja Kallas and Commissioner Marta Kos
The European Union has expressed concern over Georgia’s retreat from democratic principles, particularly in the context of the “Foreign Influence Transparency” law. The EU is ready to consider the possibility of Georgia returning to the path of European integration only if certain conditions are met. This was announced on May 31 by Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, and Marja Kos, the European Commissioner for Enlargement.
“The EU once again calls on the Georgian authorities to heed the clear demands of their citizens for democracy and a European future, as well as to release all unjustly detained journalists, activists, protesters, and political leaders.”
– Kaja Kallas and Marja Kos
The European Union emphasized that it is ready to consider Georgia’s return to the European integration process only if the Georgian authorities take concrete steps to restore democratic norms. The responsibility for these changes lies entirely with the Georgian government.
The EU representatives also drew attention to the “Foreign Influence Transparency” law, which was adopted despite protests and the veto of President Salome Zourabichvili. According to the EU, this law is a serious step backward for democracy in Georgia, as it attempts to restrict freedom of speech, suppress dissent, and narrow the space for activists, civil society, and independent media.
Earlier, the European Council announced that the integration process for Georgia has effectively been halted due to the actions of the ruling party “Georgian Dream,” particularly because of the adoption of laws on “foreign agents” and restrictions on the rights of the LGBT community. The EU also did not recognize the results of the parliamentary elections held on October 26.