Georgia Spirals Into Crisis After EU Membership Talks Stall
Tens of thousands across Georgia have taken to the streets in protest after Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced a delay in the country’s bid for European Union membership.
The move, delaying talks until 2028, has been met with fury by Georgians who overwhelmingly support joining the EU. The country’s constitution enshrines this goal, reflecting the strong desire to break from Russia’s orbit.
But Kobakhidze’s Georgian Dream party, accused of increasingly authoritarian tactics, appears to be cynically playing a different game, prioritizing ties with Russia over European integration.
"They saw this election stolen from them and since then, there is no recognition of the legitimacy of the parliament, where no opposition party has entered," President Salome Zourabichvili told Sky News. "It’s a one-rule parliament, not legitimate, not recognised by our democracy partners."
Zourabichvili, who sees herself as a defender of the people’s will, has vowed to remain in office past her term’s end next month.
"There is no legitimate parliament, and therefore, an illegitimate parliament cannot elect a new president," she declared, emphasizing that her mandate persists until a legitimately elected parliament is formed.
The protests – the third night in a row – have been met with a heavy-handed police response. Tear gas, water cannons, and pepper spray have been deployed against demonstrators, leading to over 100 arrests.
"We condemn excessive force used against Georgians rightfully protesting this betrayal of their constitution – EU is a bulwark against Kremlin," U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said on social media, highlighting the boiling frustrations.
In a dramatic move, the U.S. has suspended its strategic partnership with Georgia, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Adding to the mounting pressure, the European Parliament issued a resolution condemning last month’s Georgian elections as neither free nor fair. Kobakhidze’s party, despite winning nearly 54% of the vote, is accused of rigging the election.
Allegations of ballot stuffing, voter intimidation, and coercion of civil servants have cast a shadow over the electoral process, fueling the flames of resentment against the government.
Employees of key ministries, including foreign affairs, defense, justice, and education, alongside central bank officials, have publicly condemned Kobakhidze’s decision to stall EU accession talks.
Kobakhidze, however, has dismissed the protests as an orchestrated attempt by opposition forces "plotting a revolution" akin to Ukraine’s 2014 Maidan protests. "In Georgia, the Maidan scenario cannot be realised," he asserted, "Georgia is a state, and the state will not, of course, permit this."
But the President paints a different picture, stressing the widespread and peaceful nature of the protests. "The whole country is standing in protest," she observed, noting the "enormous reaction" growing "every hour and every day".
As the situation in Georgia spirals, the international community watches closely, expressing alarm at the democratic backsliding and the potential wider ramifications for regional stability.
The outcome remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the fight for Georgia’s future is far from over.
## Georgia at a Crossroads: An Expert Interview on EU Membership woes
**World Today News.** Georgia has been rocked by mass protests following Prime Minister Irakli kobakhidze’s announcement of a delayed timeline for EU membership talks. Wiht discussions now pushed back until 2028, the once hopeful sentiment has turned into anger and frustration.To better understand this volatile situation, we spoke with Dr. Elena Petrova, a leading expert on Caucasus geopolitics and Professor of International Relations at the European University in Tbilisi.
**World Today News:** Dr. Petrova, could you shed light on the reasons behind this delayed timeline?
**Dr. Petrova:** Several factors contribute to this setback. Firstly,the EU has expressed concerns about democratic backsliding in Georgia,citing issues like judicial independence and media freedom. Secondly, geopolitical tensions are playing a role. Russia’s influence in the region remains significant, and the EU wants to ensure georgia’s stability and resilience against external pressure. Lastly, internal political divisions within Georgia itself pose a challenge.
**World Today News:** The protests have been remarkably large and fervent, reflecting the widespread desire for EU membership. What are the underlying motivations driving this popular sentiment?
**Dr. Petrova:** For manny Georgians, EU membership symbolizes a break from the past, a chance to join a community of democratic nations and embrace European values. It represents economic prosperity, security, and stability. Georgia has long aspired to distance itself from Russia’s sphere of influence, and the EU offers a clear alternative.
**World Today News:** How likely is it that these protests will influence the government’s stance on EU membership?
**Dr. Petrova:** It’s difficult to say definitively. The government faces a delicate balancing act. On one hand, it must address the legitimate concerns of its citizens and demonstrate a commitment to EU integration. Conversely, it must navigate complex geopolitical realities and maintain a working relationship with Russia. The protests undoubtedly apply pressure on the government, but it remains to be seen if it leads to a change in policy.
**World Today News:** What are the potential consequences of this protracted delay for Georgia?
**Dr. Petrova:** The ramifications are far-reaching. Prolonged uncertainty could lead to political instability and sow further division within Georgian society.
economically,the delay may deter foreign investment and hinder growth prospects. Moreover, it strengthens Russia’s hand in the region and undermines Georgia’s aspirations for westward integration.
**World Today News:** Looking ahead, what steps can georgia take to overcome these obstacles and achieve its EU aspirations?
**Dr. Petrova:** Georgia needs to demonstrate tangible progress on crucial reforms, notably in strengthening democratic institutions, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring a free and independent media.Building consensus amongst various political factions and fostering a united front towards EU integration is essential.
furthermore, engaging in constructive dialogue with the EU and addressing its concerns transparently will be crucial to building trust and paving the way for future membership. The path forward is challenging, but not insurmountable.
**World Today News:** Thank you, Dr. Petrova, for your insightful analysis of this critical situation.
