Pawel Herczynski Affirms European Commission's Agreement with Venice Commission's Proposal of Systematic Approach
By Liza Mchedlidze
Monday, June 19, 2023
Pawel Herczynski, the EU ambassador to Georgia, expressed his hopes that the political elite in Georgia would adopt the systematic approach proposed by the Venice Commission, which has gained the agreement of the European Commission. This approach aims to establish the highest international standards, particularly in relation to the de-oligarchization law. Ambassador Herczynski emphasized that among the 12 priorities, the 5th priority specifically focuses on addressing the issue of excessive influence exerted by wealthy individuals in Georgia's public and political spheres.
"It has always been up to the Georgians to decide how they want to address this issue. In its last recommendation, the Venice Commission was very clear that the notion of a law on de-oligarchization is incorrect as it carries significant risks. Instead, the Venice Commission proposed an alternative systematic approach-an approach that is transparent and responsible, taking into account the existing environment. We, the European Commission, agree with the Venice Commission's proposal, as it upholds the highest international standards. I sincerely hope that the political elite in Georgia chooses this approach to effectively address the 5th priority, which pertains to de-oligarchization," stated Herczynski.
Furthermore, the determination of the candidate's status must be made by the 27 member states of the European Union at the highest political level. According to him, this decision will be contingent upon unanimous agreement among the member states.
"It is extremely challenging for me to provide any definitive statements. I have already expressed my personal opinion in a clear and emphatic manner. However, regrettably, the decision is not within my control, nor is it in the hands of my superiors or the EU institutions. The determination of the subsequent course of action regarding EU-Georgia relations rests with the 27 member states at the highest political level. In December, the presidents and prime ministers of these 27 countries will convene to discuss and make a decision. The crucial aspect to understand, as I have reiterated multiple times, is that this decision will require unanimous agreement. Each member state must be in agreement regarding the next steps in EU-Georgia relations. We still have six months until December, and we anticipate making considerable progress on the 12 priorities. We earnestly desire positive news from Georgia to foster a favorable atmosphere for future EU-Georgia relations," stated the EU Ambassador.
According to Pawel Herczynski, Georgia has achieved notable progress in certain priorities and the EU is awaiting outcomes on others. The Venice Commission explicitly expressed the need for a different approach, one that diverges from the choice made by the ruling party.
In October, the European Commission will evaluate the progress made, which will be reflected in the first report on enlargement pertaining to Georgia. This report will be comprehensive, based on merit, and will encompass 35 chapters covering the 12 priorities. It will be presented in detailed and technical terms. Nevertheless, the final decision regarding EU-Georgia relations lies with the 27 member states and will be determined at the highest political level during the European Council meeting in December.
