**EU Urged to Take Action Against Georgia’s Democratic Backsliding**
Representatives of Georgian think tanks and research groups have written a joint letter to the EU, calling on them to address Georgia’s democratic issues. The letter was sent ahead of an EU meeting on December 16.
Georgia has been experiencing a series of anti-democratic steps by its current government, known as Georgian Dream (GD). This includes rigged elections in October and the announcement to halt EU integration. Mass protests followed, but were met with police brutality, illegal detentions, and widespread repression.
The letter urges the EU to take action against Georgia’s democratic backsliding. It calls for:
* The non-recognition of the “illegitimate government” led by Bidzina Ivanishvili
* Sanctions on GD leaders and police officers responsible for violence
* Suspension of visa liberalization for diplomatic passport holders
* Increased support for civil society and independent media
The letter highlights the need for accountability and support for the legitimate demands of Georgian protesters. It also stresses that recent events in Georgia represent a departure from democratic norms.
**Human Rights Watch Also Calls for Action**
Two days earlier, Human Rights Watch urged EU foreign ministers to demand an independent investigation into Georgia’s response to ongoing protests. They also called for sanctions on officials responsible for violence against demonstrators.
The joint letter was signed by representatives of several Georgian think tanks and research groups, including the Georgia Reform Associates (GRASS), Gnomon Wise Research Institute, and the Rondeli Foundation.
**Recent Developments**
* On December 13, the US imposed additional visa restrictions on those responsible for undermining democracy in Georgia.
* The UK Ambassador expressed shock at law enforcement violence in Georgia on December 12.
* Ukraine sanctioned Bidzina Ivanishvili and his associates on December 5.
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