Reports of intimidation, coercion, and vote-buying have tainted the recent parliamentary elections in Georgia, leading the European Union to call for prompt investigations.
The EU has asked Georgian authorities to conduct a “swift, transparent, and independent” inquiry into the irregularities observed during the elections held on Saturday. The ruling party, Georgian Dream, secured a majority with 54% of the votes, while various opposition parties trailed behind.
A joint observation mission led by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) characterized the elections as “well organized and orderly.” However, it noted a “tense environment” and highlighted widespread reports of voter pressure, including instances of intimidation and vote-buying that undermined the secrecy of the ballot.
In a joint statement, the European Commission and High Representative Josep Borrell emphasized the need to clarify and address these irregularities as a vital step toward restoring trust in the electoral process. They called for “constructive and inclusive dialogue” among all political factions.
Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze downplayed the accusations, stating in an interview with the BBC that the elections adhered to legal standards and suggesting that “irregularities occur in every country.” In contrast, President Salome Zourabichvili condemned the elections as a “total falsification” influenced by Russia, urging citizens to protest.
Relations between the EU and Georgia have soured under Kobakhidze’s leadership, jeopardizing the country’s long-standing goal of joining the EU. Brussels has criticized Georgian Dream for implementing measures that weaken democratic institutions and echo Russian authoritarian practices. A controversial law establishing a public register for foreign-funded media and NGOs led to the suspension of Georgia’s EU accession process, while proposals to ban key opposition parties and restrict LGBT rights have drawn further ire.
The EU has reiterated its call for Georgia to pursue democratic, comprehensive, and sustainable reforms aligned with the principles of European integration. The joint statement stressed that any legislation undermining the rights and freedoms of Georgian citizens must be repealed.
Charles Michel, President of the European Council, echoed this sentiment, urging Georgian authorities to address the reported irregularities seriously. He indicated that EU leaders would evaluate the future of relations with Georgia during their upcoming meeting in Budapest next week.
It remains uncertain whether the 27 EU heads of state and government will present a united front. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán of Hungary, who co-hosts the summit, was quick to congratulate Kobakhidze and Georgian Dream on their “overwhelming victory.” Orbán also announced plans to visit Georgia shortly thereafter.
Brussels diplomats have expressed frustration with Orbán’s independent diplomatic approach, which has led to boycotts against Hungary’s EU presidency. Nonetheless, all EU leaders, including Michel and Ursula von der Leyen, are expected to attend the Budapest summit.
A spokesperson for the European Commission clarified that Orbán’s visit to Tbilisi is strictly a matter of bilateral relations between Hungary and Georgia, asserting that he has not received a mandate from the EU Council for the trip.