Rasa Jukneviciene : The brutality and violence of the Georgian Dream government continues to escalate. The European Union and its members must immediately impose sanctions against Bidzina and his associates.

**Georgia‘s “Georgian Dream” Regime Escalates Brutality, Calls for EU Sanctions**

The situation in Georgia continues to deteriorate as the ruling “Georgian Dream” party, led by Bidzina Ivanishvili, cracks down on opposition leaders. This latest move has sparked outrage and demands for action from European Union officials.

**Opposition Leader Arrested, Imprisoned**

Zurab Japaridze, a prominent member of the opposition “Coalition for Change,” was arrested in court yesterday after his bail was revoked. Judge Irakli Shvangiradze of the Tbilisi City Court ruled that pre-trial detention would be more suitable, despite Japaridze’s original bail being set at 20,000 GEL. This move has been widely condemned as a blatant attempt to silence opposition voices.

**EU Sanctions Urged**

In response to this escalation, MEP Rasa Juknevičienė took to social media to demand immediate action from the European Union and its member states. “The brutality of the ‘Georgian Dream’ regime continues to escalate,” she wrote. “Red lines were crossed long ago, but what happened today is beyond excessive.” She emphasized that sanctions must be imposed on Bidzina Ivanishvili and his associates without delay.

**Investigation Under Scrutiny**

At the heart of Japaridze’s arrest lies a contentious investigation into allegations of failure to comply with a lawful demand from the temporary investigative commission of the Georgian Parliament. The charges are punishable by a fine or up to one year in prison, and/or restrictions on holding office or engaging in professional activity for three years.

**Human Rights Concerns**

The timing and nature of this arrest raise serious concerns about the erosion of human rights in Georgia. As an EU member candidate, Georgia is expected to uphold democratic values and respect the rule of law. The ruling party’s actions, however, suggest a worrying disregard for these principles.

**EU Response Crucial**

In light of this situation, it is imperative that the European Union and its member states take decisive action. Sanctions on Bidzina Ivanishvili and his associates could serve as a much-needed deterrent against further abuses of power. By imposing penalties, the EU can demonstrate its commitment to supporting democracy in Georgia.