**US Helsinki Commission Members Back Georgia’s Protesters, Demand New Elections**
As Georgia marks 150 days of continuous protests against the government, the US Helsinki Commission has issued a statement in support of the protesters. The commission, which is made up of members from both parties in the US Congress, is calling on international partners to join them in demanding new elections and the release of prisoners arrested during the protests.
The commission’s statement is a significant development in the ongoing crisis in Georgia. For over five months now, people have been taking to the streets to demand the resignation of the government and fresh elections. The protesters are accusing the current administration of rigging the last election and denying citizens their basic rights.
**A Blow Against Autocracy**
The US Helsinki Commission’s statement is a direct attack on the Georgian Dream government, which has been accused of authoritarianism. By calling for new elections and the release of prisoners, the commission is essentially saying that the current regime is illegitimate and should be removed from power.
“The Georgian people will not surrender their democratic aspirations to an illegitimate regime,” the statement reads. “By cracking down on independent media, opposition political parties, and peaceful protestors, Georgian Dream is isolating their country from the transatlantic community and condemning Georgia to a future of repression aligned with Russia, China, and Iran.”
**A Warning to International Partners**
The commission’s statement also serves as a warning to international partners. By failing to act in support of the protesters, they risk losing an ally in Georgia that has long been committed to democratic values and security.
“Georgia was once a beacon of hope in the South Caucasus,” the statement warns. “If we fail to act, we may lose this ally firmly committed to our shared security and democratic values. Georgians will be left to suffer under a Russian-controlled authoritarian government.”
**What’s Next?**
The US Helsinki Commission’s statement is a significant development in the ongoing crisis in Georgia. As the country marks 150 days of continuous protests, it remains to be seen how international partners will respond to the commission’s call for action.
One thing is certain, however: the fate of democracy and freedom in Georgia hangs in the balance. Will the international community come together to support the protesters and demand new elections? Only time will tell.
Read More @ civil.ge
