According to Human Rights Watch’s 2024 report, Georgia has taken “significant steps backward” in the protection of human rights: repressive laws were adopted, parliamentary elections were marred by numerous violations, protesters faced severe crackdowns, and both the media and civil society suffered serious delegitimization.

In 2024, the Georgian parliament passed the “Law on Transparency of Foreign Influence” (Foreign Agents Law), under which NGOs and media outlets receiving 20% or more of their funding from abroad must register as “organizations serving the interests of a foreign power.” The law imposes strict reporting requirements, allows the collection of personal and sensitive data, and sets heavy fines for non-compliance. Critics argue that the law is designed to marginalize independent NGOs and media.

Also in 2024, parliament adopted the “Law on Family Values and the Protection of Minors,” which restricts the rights of LGBT people, including in education, healthcare, freedom of expression, and peaceful assembly.

In the October parliamentary elections, the ruling Georgian Dream party declared victory with nearly 54% of the vote. However, international observers, parts of the opposition, and the President of Georgia reported widespread violations, including voter bribery, intimidation, and breaches of ballot secrecy at several polling stations.

After the elections, the government announced a suspension of EU accession talks until the end of 2028, sparking waves of protests across the country.

During these protests, security forces used excessive force: tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets were deployed; protesters were beaten, detained, and some sustained serious injuries. Journalists covering the demonstrations were attacked, arrested, and had their equipment damaged. Human rights defenders and international institutions note that cases of ill-treatment of detainees are rarely investigated, and police officers are almost never held accountable.

Human Rights Watch and other rights organizations warn that Georgia is undergoing a human rights crisis: legislation is being used to restrict civil liberties, elections were flawed, protests are being suppressed, and vital institutions — the media and rights groups — are under pressure. The government’s retreat from the path of EU integration has heightened concerns over the country’s direction.

Laws such as the “Foreign Influence” act and the “Family Values” bill are often used in states where authorities seek to tighten control over society and discredit independent institutions. In Georgia, their adoption coincided with elections and mass protests, suggesting that the authorities are trying to neutralize potential centers of criticism before they become a threat to regime stability.

The promise of EU membership has long been a key reference point for both the population and political legitimacy. Suspending negotiations until 2028 is not merely a diplomatic move but a symbol of disappointment and mistrust. It undermines reform momentum and the expectations of citizens.

International organizations (HRW, Amnesty, the Council of Europe, etc.) have already publicly criticized Georgia for the worsening rights environment: this could lead to sanctions, reputational damage, reduced foreign investment, and a decline in international support.

Widespread protests show that citizens are not willing to accept unchecked restrictions. However, the use of force, arbitrary arrests, and pressure on the media may only temporarily suppress dissent while fostering long-term discontent. Pressure on journalists, NGOs, and dissidents creates an atmosphere of fear and self-censorship, limiting public debate and obstructing checks on government power.

If protests continue, particularly among youth and urban populations, Georgia could face more violent clashes with security forces and harsher repressive measures.

The loss of trust from the EU, weakened ties with international institutions, and potential sanctions could also damage the economy and foreign investment. Moving away from EU integration reduces incentives for judicial, anti-corruption, and other reforms, potentially entrenching systemic authoritarianism.

The authorities could defuse tensions by partially revising the most controversial laws: amending provisions, ensuring the independence of the judiciary and law enforcement, and conducting real investigations into abuses. An open dialogue with the opposition, NGOs, and civil society could reduce mistrust.

International partners, especially the EU, could play a stronger role by supporting civil society, demanding transparency, and setting standards as conditions for cooperation.

 

#GEORGIA

16.09.2025 09:00