**European Parliament Debates Georgia‘s Disputed Elections**
The European Parliament recently discussed Georgia’s disputed October elections. The discussion centered around alleged Russian interference and serious irregularities in the voting process.
European Commission Vice-President Margaritis Schinas stated that the elections did not meet the standards expected of a country seeking EU candidate status. He condemned the ruling party for exploiting fear of war and suppressing opposition. Schinas also emphasized that future engagement with Georgia would depend on key reforms, including repealing laws against LGBT rights and foreign influence.
**Social Justice Center Criticizes Government’s Response to Abkhazia Situation**
The Social Justice Center (SJC) has slammed the Georgian Dream government for its “silence and inaction” on Abkhazia. The SJC accused the government of enabling Russia’s growing control over the region. They criticized the government for not condemning Russian annexation and for neglecting diplomatic efforts.
**Constitutional Court Takes Up Lawsuit Challenging Abortion Restrictions**
The Constitutional Court of Georgia has taken up a lawsuit filed by the Public Defender challenging legal restrictions on abortion for women victims of rape. The lawsuit targets a provision that requires a court conviction confirming rape in order to legally terminate a pregnancy between 12-22 weeks.
**Georgian Citizens Detained by Russian Forces Near Occupied Village**
Two Georgian citizens were illegally detained by Russian forces near the occupied village of Tsnelisi, according to the Georgian State Security Service (SSSG). The SSSG quickly activated mechanisms to secure their release and notified international partners.
**Georgia’s External Merchandise Trade Increases in January-October 2024**
Georgia’s external merchandise trade saw a 5.5% increase in January-October 2024, reaching USD 19,022.4 billion, according to the National Statistics Service (Geostat). Exports grew by 7.4%, while imports rose by 4.8%.
**Prosecutor General‘s Office Summons Leaders of Unity-UNM and Strong Georgia**
Khatia Dekanoidze of the Unity-UNM coalition and Badri Japaridze of Strong Georgia have been summoned to the Prosecutor General’s Office for questioning in connection with alleged electoral fraud.
**High Council of Justice Approves Supplemental Payments for Judges**
The High Council of Justice of Georgia has approved over half a million GEL in supplemental payments for judges across the first and second-instance courts. The organization suggests that these payments are intended to maintain influence over judges within the judicial system.
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