Tensions Rise in Georgia as Government Rescinds EU Negotiation Plans Amid Protests
In the weeks following the parliamentary elections in Georgia, opposition movements struggled to rally public support, leading to a significant decline in protests. However, the political landscape shifted dramatically when Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze delivered a controversial message from his government team: negotiations with the European Union (EU) regarding EU membership would not commence until the end of 2028. This declaration marked a stark departure from Georgia's previously pro-European stance, which is enshrined in its constitution.
Kobakhidze characterized the EU's approach as 'blackmail' and indicated that the country would reject any EU budget subsidies for the next four years, suggesting a definitive move away from integration with Europe. Despite asserting that Georgia would aim for EU membership by 2030, many viewed this as unrealistic and a misalignment with the country's prior commitments to European integration. EU Ambassador to Georgia, Paweł Herczyński, expressed disappointment, describing the government's decision as 'heartbreaking' and warning of potential repercussions, including further alignment with Russia.
In immediate response to the announcement, protests erupted across several Georgian cities, notably in Tbilisi, Gori, Batumi, Kutaisi, and Zugdidi. Tens of thousands of demonstrators took to the streets, and tensions escalated into clashes with law enforcement. Rioters set barricades on fire, and police responded with water cannons and tear gas. Reports surfaced of violent arrests, with security forces accused of brutality against both demonstrators and journalists.
President Salome Surabishvili, a vocal critic of the ruling party, condemned the government's actions, alleging a constitutional coup and warning of Georgia's waning independence under Russian influence. Her accusations are backed by recent elections marred by allegations of fraud and intimidation, which she does not recognize. The European Parliament has even called for the elections to be repeated within a year due to concerns over the integrity of the electoral process.
Earlier this year, the EU suspended Georgia’s candidate status, citing the government’s increasingly authoritarian measures, including a controversial foreign influence law reminiscent of similar restrictions in Russia. Additionally, the erosion of civil liberties, particularly concerning LGBTQ rights, further complicates the nation’s aspirations for EU membership.
The unrest continued into the following days, with various private institutions halting operations in solidarity with the protesters. Alarmingly, over 130 diplomats signed a letter of protest against the government's recent decisions, underscoring increasing discontent within the diplomatic community. The Georgian ambassador to Bulgaria has resigned, stating his commitment to Euro-Atlantic integration cannot be compromised.
As pressure mounts, President Surabishvili has called for a robust response from European powers, reflecting the urgent need for clarity regarding Georgia's future and its relationship with the EU. The protests highlight a critical junction for Georgian society—balancing aspirations for European integration against the backdrop of an increasingly hostile domestic political environment and external pressures from Russia.
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