**EU Proposes to Suspend Visa-Free Travel for Georgian Officials**
The European Commission has proposed suspending part of the EU-Georgia Agreement on visa facilitation. This means that Georgian diplomats, officials, and their families will need a visa to travel to the EU for short stays.
This proposal is in response to the violent treatment of protesters, politicians, and independent media by the Georgian authorities. The Commission is also concerned about recent laws in Georgia that undermine fundamental rights.
The EU has already taken steps to address Georgia’s democratic backsliding. In June, the European Council said that the country’s actions were effectively halting its accession process.
**What Does This Mean?**
If the EU Council adopts this proposal, Georgian officials will need a visa for short stays in the EU. They will no longer have access to special visa facilitations, such as shorter application times and lower fees.
The Commission is now waiting for the Council to decide on this proposal. If it is adopted, Member States will need to take measures to implement the new rules.
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