Council of Europe Assembly Criticizes Georgia’s Democratic Backsliding in New Resolution

The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) adopted a resolution on June 24 sharply criticizing Georgia for its decline in democratic standards. The resolution urges the Georgian government to halt the persecution of opposition figures, repeal repressive legislation, and create conditions conducive to free and fair elections.

Implications for Georgia’s Political and Institutional Stability

The resolution was supported by 83 PACE members, with 5 opposing and 4 abstaining. It expresses "deep concern at the ongoing democratic backsliding in Georgia," highlighting the suppression of civil society, political opposition, and dissenting voices despite prior recommendations and resolutions addressing these issues.

"The Assembly calls on the Georgian authorities to stop persecuting opposition leaders, repeal repressive laws, and ensure conditions for free and democratic elections," the resolution states.

Membership in the Council of Europe entails obligations that Georgia is seen to be neglecting, including respect for democratic norms and freedoms. The resolution also condemns reforms affecting academic freedom and transnational repression against journalists, which undermine democratic institutions.

Further, PACE demands thorough investigations into police violence during protests in Georgia and stresses the importance of Tbilisi complying with rulings from the European Court of Human Rights and recommendations from the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).

While firmly critical, the Assembly reaffirms its commitment to dialogue aimed at restoring democratic principles in Georgia.

Georgian Parliamentary Response

The resolution drew sharp rebuke from Georgia’s Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili, who described it as "anti-Georgian." Speaking on Rustavi 2 TV, Papuashvili asserted that PACE and the European Parliament do not recognize Georgia’s sovereignty.

He argued, "PACE did not recognize the will of the Georgian people who elected the ruling Georgian Dream party in the 2024 parliamentary elections, calling instead for new elections." Papuashvili noted that Georgia had suspended its PACE delegation membership about 18 months ago in protest.

This political tension adds complexity to Georgia’s position in European institutions amid ongoing scrutiny over its democratic trajectory. The financial and governance risks linked to continued political instability may affect investor confidence and economic prospects.

Transparency in governance, adherence to democratic norms, and respect for judicial bodies are critical for Georgia’s engagement with international partners and financial markets. The resolution and its fallout underscore the challenges the country faces in maintaining institutional credibility and political stability.