The European Union has taken a firm stance against Georgia‘s government, condemning the violent crackdown on pro-EU protests and suspending visa-free travel for Georgian officials holding diplomatic passports. The EU has also suspended financial assistance directly benefiting the Georgian authorities, citing democratic backsliding and a lack of commitment to the EU integration process.
Georgia’s government has been urged to respect the right to freedom of assembly and expression, refrain from using force against peaceful protesters, and investigate all acts of violence. The EU has outlined clear steps required to resume the accession process, including the repeal of legislations running counter to EU norms and values.
The suspension of visa-free travel for Georgian officials holding diplomatic passports is considered a strong signal by the EU to Georgia’s government, demonstrating its willingness to react firmly to the deteriorating situation on the ground. The decision also shows that the EU stands ready to take further actions to hold those responsible for violence accountable.
The EU remains open to engaging with Georgia should it reverse course and resume its European path. However, until then, relations will likely remain tense, and the country may lose out on potential benefits from integration, such as financial assistance and visa-free travel.
Key points:
* The EU has suspended all financial assistance directly benefiting the Georgian authorities.
* Visa-free travel for Georgian officials holding diplomatic passports has been suspended.
* The EU urges Georgia’s government to respect the right to freedom of assembly and expression.
* Clear steps are required from the Georgian authorities to resume the accession process.
* Relations between the EU and Georgia will likely remain tense until significant steps are taken by the government.
Sources:
* Official statement from the European Union
* Joint statements from Commissioner Marta Kos and High Representative Kaja Kallas
* Article from Interpressnews, a Brussels-based correspondent.