**Former Georgian MP Named as Country’s Representative to the Council of Europe**
Khatia Tsilosani, a former lawmaker from Georgia’s ruling party, Georgian Dream (GD), has been appointed as the country’s permanent representative to the Council of Europe. The appointment was made by GD Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze and is set to be finalized with a signature from the GD-elected President Mikheil Kavelashvili on July 10.
**Tsilosani’s Background**
Khatia Tsilosani has a strong background in politics and international relations. She served as a Georgian MP from 2020 to 2024, during which time she represented Georgia at various international forums, including the NATO Parliamentary Assembly and the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU). She also held positions within the Ministry of Agriculture, serving as Deputy Minister from 2019 to 2020.
**Georgian Dream’s Tensions with the Council of Europe**
However, Tsilosani’s appointment comes at a time when Georgia’s relations with the Council of Europe and its Parliamentary Assembly (PACE) have deteriorated. The Georgian delegation has been facing challenges, including conditional approval of their credentials during PACE’s winter session. This was due to demands for a rerun of parliamentary elections and the release of protesters recently detained.
**Criticism from the Council of Europe**
The situation has been further exacerbated by PACE’s adoption of a resolution on April 10, condemning Georgia’s “rapid democratic backsliding” and warning that further declines in democratic standards could jeopardize the Georgian delegation’s future participation in PACE. This resolution reflects growing concerns about Georgia’s government and its treatment of opposition and critical voices.
**Analysis**
The appointment of Khatia Tsilosani as Georgia’s representative to the Council of Europe raises questions about Georgia’s intentions and commitment to democratic values. Given the country’s current tensions with the Council of Europe, it is unclear how effective Tsilosani will be in representing Georgian interests abroad. Furthermore, her background and experience may not necessarily align with the concerns and criticisms raised by PACE.
**Conclusion**
The situation highlights the need for Georgia’s government to take a more inclusive and democratic approach towards its citizens and international partners. As Tsilosani assumes her role as permanent representative, she will face challenges in promoting Georgia’s interests while also addressing the country’s democratic shortcomings.
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