The European Union is threatening to reinstate visa requirements for Georgia unless Tbilisi halts its “slipping away from democratic principles.” The European Commission plans to send a letter to the Georgian government by August 31, officially suspending the visa liberalization regime that has been in effect since 2017.
Kaja Kallas, the EU’s foreign policy chief, stated that attacks on democracy by the ruling Georgian Dream party are intensifying. This potential suspension has raised concerns among some EU member states, who fear the measure might harm the Georgian people more than it impacts the leadership.
EU Accusations and Georgian Response
According to the EU, the current government in Tbilisi is serving Moscow’s interests, despite 80% of the Georgian population supporting European integration. The ruling party, controlled by businessman Bidzina Ivanishvili, is accused by the EU of influencing and intimidating public opinion.
Georgian officials have dismissed the EU’s threats as blackmail and interference in their internal affairs. Last week, the European Parliament adopted a strong resolution condemning the “self-proclaimed authorities” established after the parliamentary elections on October 26, 2024, which they claim were manipulated. In turn, the Georgian Dream party accuses the opposition and the EU of acting against national interests.
