Tomorrow, the European Parliament is expected to pass a significant resolution that could mark a crucial turning point in Georgia’s relationship with the European Union. The resolution will focus on the need for re-elections in Georgia and issues surrounding political prisoners, with a warning that failure to address these concerns could further isolate the country internationally.
Tina Bokuchava, the Chair of the Unity-National Movement (UNM), has emphasized the gravity of the upcoming resolution in the European Parliament, calling it a “red line” that could determine the future trajectory of Georgia’s EU relations. According to Bokuchava, the resolution is not just symbolic—it holds critical importance for restoring ties between Georgia and the European Union, particularly after the controversial October 26 elections.
“The resolution will underline the necessity of holding re-elections in Georgia,” Bokuchava explained during a press briefing. “As European Parliament members have already stated, this resolution will be a red line. Without re-elections, it will be impossible to rebuild the relationship between Georgian authorities and the European Union.”
The MEPs’ resolution will also address the issue of political prisoners in Georgia, specifically calling for the release of former President Mikheil Saakashvili, who remains incarcerated despite ongoing calls for his freedom. Bokuchava highlighted that a nation with aspirations to join the European Union cannot afford to have political prisoners, emphasizing that the presence of Saakashvili in prison undermines Georgia’s commitment to European values.
The EU’s intervention comes as Georgia’s political landscape faces increasing scrutiny, with many international observers questioning the legitimacy of the October elections. Bokuchava reiterated the UNM’s stance that re-elections are the only way to end Georgia’s international isolation and pave the way for future cooperation with the EU.
Key Figures Behind the Resolution
The resolution is being driven by a group of MEPs, including Rasa Jukneviciene, Marketa Gregorova, and Petras Austrevicius, who are also advocating for sanctions against senior Georgian officials. The resolution calls for concrete actions from EU structures to hold the government accountable, including potential sanctions on members of the ruling Georgian Dream party. This move has been seen as a direct response to ongoing concerns over the integrity of Georgia’s political process and the treatment of opposition figures.
As Georgia prepares to face the potential consequences of the European Parliament’s resolution, the coming days will be pivotal in determining whether the country can take steps toward resolving its internal political crisis and reintegrating into the international fold. With the red line drawn by the EU, the Georgian government now faces immense pressure to act.
