**European Parliament Condemns Georgia’s Democratic Crisis**
The European Parliament has adopted a resolution condemning the democratic backsliding in Georgia. The document, jointly tabled by several groups, describes the country’s worsening crisis and slams the ruling Georgian Dream party for its authoritarian shift.
**Rigged Elections Blamed**
The parliament regrets that the elections in October 2024 were rigged, with significant attacks on democracy leading up to the vote. The resolution states that the election results did not reflect the true will of the Georgian people.
**Electoral Fraud and Manipulation Allegations**
MEPs say that the elections were marred by voter intimidation, obstruction of observation, and manipulation of voter procedures. They call for new, free, and fair elections within a year, to be held under diligent international observation.
**Sanctions and Visa Liberalization Review**
The parliament proposes targeted sanctions against officials responsible for democratic backsliding and electoral law violations. It also urges the Commission and the Council to review Georgia’s visa-free status, with the possibility of suspension.
**Support for Opposition and Civil Society**
MEPs express support for opposition parties, civil society, and the media in Georgia. They warn the Georgian Dream authorities that any attempts to ban legally established political parties would alienate the country from the EU and make EU accession impossible.
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