Concerns surrounding Georgia’s recent parliamentary election have prompted responses from both the European Union and the United Kingdom.
A joint statement from the EU’s High Representative, Josep Borrell, and the European Commission highlighted the importance of democratic transparency, while the UK’s Minister for Europe, Stephen Doughty, echoed this call, urging Georgian authorities to address irregularities and protect democratic values.
EU and UK Raise Concerns Over Election Day Reports
Despite a generally orderly process, reports from the OSCE International Election Observation Mission indicated significant issues, including “widespread intimidation and pressure on voters,” particularly targeting public sector employees.
The OSCE’s findings highlighted procedural inconsistencies and an atmosphere that compromised the secrecy of votes, leading the EU to call for “swiftly, transparently, and independently” handled investigations by Georgian authorities.
“Election day was generally procedurally well-organized and administered in an orderly manner,” the OSCE report noted, “but marked by a tense environment, with frequent compromises in vote secrecy and several procedural inconsistencies.”
The report also underscored concerns that voter pressure, especially on government employees, negatively impacted public trust in the process.
The UK’s Call for Accountability
Minister for Europe Stephen Doughty, representing the UK’s stance, voiced similar concerns. He affirmed the UK’s support for the OSCE’s assessment, pointing to irregularities that, he noted, “run contrary to international standards.”
Doughty emphasized the importance of reversing any decline in democratic commitment, stating that the UK “will be monitoring this closely together with our international partners.”
“The misuse of administrative resources, a highly polarized campaign environment, as well as widespread intimidation and coercion against voters…these are not the actions of an open, democratic society,” said Doughty.
The UK, which contributed 50 short-term observers to the OSCE monitoring mission, emphasized the need for Georgian authorities to investigate all irregularities and uphold democratic integrity.
Political Dialogue and Reform Needed in Georgia
Both the EU and the UK have stressed the need for constructive dialogue within Georgia’s polarized political environment.
Following up on the European Council Conclusions of 17 October, Borrell’s statement urged Georgia to adopt democratic reforms that respect EU principles and international standards.
The EU expects that any legislation in Georgia that might restrict fundamental freedoms should be reassessed to ensure alignment with democratic values.
The Messages and Expectations for Georgia’s Future
The joint message from the EU and UK reflects a shared commitment to strengthening democracy in Georgia. They anticipate that the final OSCE report and its recommendations will guide Georgia in addressing these challenges and in adopting reforms for a fair political landscape.
Ensuring an environment where every voter can cast their ballot freely and without fear remains a priority for both partners, as Georgia looks to build closer ties with Europe.
Sources: THX News, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Stephen Doughty MP & The European Union.
