Prepared by Messenger Staff
UK Ambassador Condemns Democratic Setbacks in Georgia
The United Kingdom's Ambassador to Georgia, Gareth Ward, issued a strong criticism of the Georgian Dream party in a video address, denouncing its recent actions as a deviation from Georgia's Euro-Atlantic aspirations.
"We are shocked by the violence used by law enforcement and informal groups," Ward declared in Georgian, describing such actions as "unacceptable" and calling for their immediate cessation.
Ambassador Ward highlighted a significant shift in UK-Georgia relations, driven by concerns over democratic backsliding and escalating violence. Referencing a statement by the UK Foreign Secretary, he announced the suspension of bilateral cooperation, including funding for public administration reforms, the Peace Fund, and military partnerships. "For instance, we will no longer assist Georgia's Ministry of Defense in building its cybersecurity operations center," Ward stated. The suspension also extends to political engagement, including the Wardrop Strategic Dialogue.
Citing reports from Georgia's Public Defender, Ward stressed the need for accountability, noting that over 400 detainees showed signs of physical abuse. He called for an independent investigation into the excessive use of force by police.
The Ambassador urged Georgian Dream to listen to Western partners who have supported Georgia's sovereignty for decades. While expressing concern over the current trajectory, he reaffirmed confidence in Georgia's potential to become a thriving democracy but issued a stark warning: "The alternative is autocracy."
Council of Europe Members Criticize Georgia's Democratic Backsliding and Attacks on Media
The Council of Europe issued strong statements on December 11, highlighting concerns about escalating violence in Georgia, democratic backsliding, and violations of media freedoms and human rights.
In a joint statement from 35 member states, including the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, the Georgian Dream party faced criticism for rejecting EU financial support and halting EU accession negotiations - actions deemed contrary to the Georgian constitution. The statement condemned the violence against peaceful protesters advocating for Georgia's European aspirations and called on authorities to end intimidation against civil society, opposition figures, and independent media.
"We reiterate our serious concerns about the continuous democratic backsliding of the Georgian government to the detriment of the Georgian people," the statement read, urging authorities to uphold democratic values and repeal laws that violate international commitments.
The Council's Group of Friends for the Safety of Journalists and Media Freedom further criticized the disproportionate use of force, including against journalists. Over 400 individuals have been detained during protests, with reports of torture and violence requiring urgent medical care for many. "Freedom of assembly and expression are being violated," the group stated, condemning police crackdowns on media workers and the divisive "Transparency of Foreign Influence" law.
The Council called on Georgian Dream to cease its repressive actions, ensure media safety, and protect the rights of peaceful assembly, warning that these developments undermine the European values Georgia aspires to uphold.
