**Georgia’s Opposition Leader Urges Sanctions Against Regime**
In a passionate speech at the Council of Europe Assembly, Tina Bokuchava, Chairperson of the United National Movement, called on lawmakers to impose sanctions on Ivanishvili and representatives of his regime. This is the only way, she said, to apply external pressure and stop the growing authoritarianism in Georgia.
Bokuchava’s appeal comes as the Georgian government continues to arrest opposition politicians and silence them through intimidation and propaganda. Just days ago, two prominent leaders, Mamuka Khazaradze and Badri Japaridze, were arrested for refusing to appear before a parliamentary commission seen as illegitimate by many. Another leader, Nika Gvaramia, was imprisoned just weeks prior. The founder of Bokuchava’s party, former President Mikheil Saakashvili, has been in prison for over three years.
Bokuchava herself is not immune to the regime’s crackdown. Her husband was violently kidnapped and threatened with harm to their children two weeks ago. She fears that she may not be free by the next session of the Council of Europe Assembly and may even face imprisonment herself.
**”Belarusization” of Georgia**
The opposition leader spoke of the “Belarusization” of Georgia, a term referring to the country’s growing authoritarianism, which is reminiscent of Belarus under President Lukashenko. Bokuchava warned that nearly every political leader in Georgia is now behind bars, and draconian laws are targeting free media and civil society.
**EU Can Make a Difference**
Bokuchava urged the European Union to take action against the regime by imposing sanctions on Ivanishvili and his representatives. Although the EU cannot impose personal sanctions itself, Bokuchava noted that it can do so collectively with its member states. She expressed hope that a way would be found to overcome any vetoes and impose sanctions.
**Time for Action**
The opposition leader emphasized that time is of the essence in taking action against the regime. She urged lawmakers to call on their governments to impose sanctions, saying this is the only way to exert external pressure and show the regime that Europe and the United States have not forgotten Georgia.
By imposing sanctions, Bokuchava said, the EU can demonstrate its commitment to democracy and human rights in Georgia. “With our principled positions, statements, engagement, and firm support for political prisoners and protesters,” she declared, “we must show this regime that its propaganda is false.”
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