**European Parliament to Hold Debates on Georgia, Vote on Report**
Today, the European Parliament will hold debates on Georgia, followed by a vote on a report related to the country’s European Commission reports for 2023 and 2024. The draft resolution emphasizes the parliament’s solidarity with the Georgian people and their desire for a democratic and prosperous future.
**Strong Condemnation of Repression**
The document strongly condemns the violent repression of peaceful protesters, civil society representatives, political opponents, and media representatives by the authorities. It demands that the government refrain from using force, respect freedom of assembly and expression, and repeal recently adopted legislation aimed at suppressing public protests. The report also expresses concern about the growing number of political prisoners and calls for their immediate release.
**Concerns Over Judicial System**
The European Parliament is concerned over the lack of independence in Georgia’s judicial system, where judges linked to the ruling “Georgian Dream” party control politically motivated trials against peaceful protesters and government critics. The report emphasizes that this has halted Georgia’s EU integration process due to continued democratic backsliding.
**Call for Sanctions**
The European Parliament calls for the immediate imposition of personal sanctions against Bidzina Ivanishvili, his family members, and his companies. It also urges the EU to freeze his financial assets in cooperation with other jurisdictions.
**New Elections Required**
The report emphasizes that a new parliamentary election is required within the next few months to resolve Georgia’s current political and constitutional crisis. The election should be held under an independent and impartial electoral administration, monitored by international and local observers to ensure a fair, free, and transparent process.
**Recognition of Illegitimate Government**
The European Parliament does not recognize the self-proclaimed government formed by the “Georgian Dream” party following the rigged parliamentary elections. It considers Georgia a state captured by the illegitimate “Georgian Dream” regime.
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