**US Ambassador Warns Against Democracy Backsliding in Georgia**
In her final Independence Day address to the people of Georgia, US Ambassador Robin Dunnigan delivered a clear message about the state of democracy in the country. Speaking at a reception in Tbilisi on July 2, Dunnigan highlighted the importance of democratic values such as promise, duty, and optimism.
She specifically mentioned the imprisonment of political opponents and civil society representatives who are being targeted for their work to promote free media, rule of law, and fair elections. This is not the first time that US officials have expressed concerns about the Georgian Dream government’s actions and rhetoric. The Ambassador also invoked a quote from US Vice President JD Vance, stating that democratic mandates cannot be achieved by censoring or imprisoning opponents.
**Tensions Rise Between Washington and Tbilisi**
Dunnigan’s remarks come amid heightened tensions between the US and Georgia over concerns about democratic backsliding, repression of civil society, and increasingly anti-Western rhetoric by ruling party officials. In May, the US House of Representatives passed a bipartisan bill calling for targeted sanctions on Georgian Dream officials accused of undermining democratic norms.
In response, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze sent an open letter to President Donald Trump and Senator JD Vance, dismissing the bill as “absurd” and “hostile” toward the Georgian people. This exchange highlights the growing divide between Washington and Tbilisi over issues such as democracy and human rights.
**A Strong Partnership**
Despite these tensions, Dunnigan used her final speech as ambassador to reiterate the strength of the US-Georgia partnership, which is built on shared democratic values and decades of cooperation. She emphasized that Americans and Georgians have been true partners in their quest for democracy for over three decades.
In her closing remarks, she expressed deep appreciation for the Georgian people and confidence in the country’s democratic future. “I am optimistic because I know the vast majority of Americans and Georgians believe in the promise of our democracy and our duty to defend it,” she said.
**A Legacy of Service**
Dunnigan announced her retirement on June 5, describing it as a personal decision after more than 33 years of diplomatic service. Her legacy will likely be remembered for her commitment to promoting democratic values and human rights in Georgia.
As the US-Georgia partnership continues to evolve, one thing is clear: democracy remains a cornerstone of this relationship. The question now is whether the Georgian Dream government will heed Dunnigan’s warning and take steps to address concerns about democratic backsliding and repression of civil society.
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