**Georgia on the Brink: Ex-President Sounds Alarm on Erosion of Democracy**
In a stark warning to the international community, Georgia’s fifth President, Salome Zurabishvili, has sounded the alarm on the erosion of democracy in her home country. Speaking at the Senate of the Czech Republic, she described a disturbing trend where democratic institutions are being dismantled and replaced with authoritarian structures.
“We are witnessing the birth of a one-party system,” she said, “and behind all this stands one man.” Zurabishvili’s words were laced with urgency as she highlighted the dangers of unchecked power. Her message was clear: Georgia is on the precipice of losing its democratic identity and sliding into an autocratic regime.
**Repression, Not Revolution**
Contrary to the notion that authoritarianism often emerges through violent revolution or sudden coup d’états, Zurabishvili emphasized that Georgia’s transformation is unfolding incrementally. “Not overnight, but step by step,” she said. This incremental erosion of democratic norms and institutions has allowed the ruling party to consolidate power without facing significant resistance.
**Tools of Repression**
The former President pointed out that key institutions in Georgia have been co-opted or manipulated to serve the interests of the ruling party. “The judiciary has become a tool of repression,” she said, noting that courts are now reluctant to challenge the prosecution’s excessive demands. This perversion of justice has left opposition parties and civil society organizations vulnerable to harassment, fines, and even outright suppression.
**Russia‘s Shadow**
Zurabishvili was clear in her assessment: behind Georgia’s slide into authoritarianism stands Russia’s influence. “Where once there was the promise of a European democracy,” she said, now looms “the shadow of Russian-style autocracy—and behind it all is the shadow of Russia.” This comment underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region.
**A Call to Action**
In conclusion, Zurabishvili issued a call to action to the international community. She implored leaders and citizens alike to recognize the warning signs and take decisive steps to prevent Georgia’s democratic backsliding. The stakes are high: if left unchecked, this trend could have far-reaching consequences for regional stability and the values of European democracy.
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