STORY
European foreign ministers have issued a stark warning to Georgia over what they describe as a deliberate and dangerous slide towards authoritarianism. In a strongly worded joint statement, ministers including the UK’s Foreign Secretary David Lammy condemned the recent detention of opposition leaders, journalists and activists as politically motivated and incompatible with democratic principles.
The statement, issued on 11 July, said the arrests, which occurred shortly before local elections, appeared to be timed to undermine political competition and silence dissent. Ministers expressed alarm at Georgia’s adoption of repressive laws, including those targeting civil society and independent media, which they claim represent a serious breach of European values. The coordinated crackdown on peaceful protesters and critics of the government was described as deeply troubling and a sign that Georgia’s ruling authorities are turning their back on democratic norms.
In response to these developments, the foreign ministers announced a recalibration of relations with Georgia. This includes reductions in assistance and cooperation, with further measures such as sanctions not ruled out. The statement emphasised that should the Georgian government continue to erode democratic space and disregard fundamental freedoms, further actions would be considered both individually and collectively by the signatory nations. Despite the severity of the criticism, the ministers noted that it is not too late for Georgia to change course. They called for the immediate release of those detained for political reasons, the repeal of repressive legislation, and a return to genuine democratic dialogue that includes all political stakeholders.