"The European Commission has issued a damning assessment of Georgia's progress toward joining the European Union, accusing it of "serious democratic backsliding" that has left the Caucasus nation as a candidate for membership "in name only." In an annual progress report for 10 candidate countries released on November 4, the commission noted a government crackdown on political opponents and a policy shift that appears slanted toward Moscow, effectively derailing the country's EU bid despite widespread public support for accession."
"Georgia has seen its relationship with the 27-nation bloc deteriorate since Tbilisi adopted anti-LGBT legislation and a so-called foreign agent law last year. The relationship eroded further after parliamentary elections in October 2024 in which the Georgian Dream party held on to power and then decided to halt EU accession talks while adopting what many -- including Brussels -- see as Russia-friendly policies."
The European Commission labeled Georgia a candidate in name only because of serious democratic backsliding and moves that favor Moscow. The commission cited a government crackdown on political opponents and policy shifts that have effectively derailed EU accession despite widespread public support. Adoption of anti‑LGBT legislation and a foreign agent law last year worsened ties with the EU. After October 2024 parliamentary elections, the ruling Georgian Dream party retained power, halted accession talks, and pursued Russia‑friendly policies. Several senior opposition figures were jailed and protests met increased arrests, raising rule‑of‑law concerns.
Read at RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty
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