**European Parliament Delegation Urges EU Action on Human Rights in Georgia**
A delegation of European Parliament members (MEPs) visited Georgia from May 26-28, meeting with government officials, civil society groups, and families of political prisoners. The visit aimed to show support for pro-EU civil society organizations and assess the human rights situation in the country.
The MEPs, led by Nacho Sánchez Amor, were critical of recent legislation passed by the Georgian parliament. They claimed that the authorities are trying to manipulate public opinion and spread disinformation about the European Union (EU). The delegation also highlighted repressive actions against civil society groups, with some human rights non-governmental organizations (NGOs) risking closure without foreign support.
**Georgia’s Path towards EU Membership Uncertain**
Lithuanian MEP Rasa Juknevičienė praised the Georgian people for their courage and resilience. She noted that they have been fighting for a European future despite harsh conditions, often comparing them to heroes in Europe. However, she emphasized that the situation in Georgia is deteriorating rapidly, with the country becoming increasingly authoritarian.
Juknevičienė urged EU member states to impose sanctions on those responsible for oppression in Georgia. She insisted that a new, fair, and free election is the only way out of the crisis. The MEP also highlighted the alarming number of political prisoners in Georgia, which currently stands at 65.
**Civil Society and Media Representatives Speak Out**
Three Georgian representatives spoke during the European Parliament meeting. Writer Lasha Bugadze called for the defeat of Russian President Vladimir Putin and punishment for those who support him. Journalist Beka Korshia highlighted the case of jailed journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli, whom he described as a “political prisoner” facing absurd charges.
Keti Kerashvili, sister of detained protester Irakli Kerashvili, spoke about the arrested demonstrators being “the conscience of our country.” She vowed that the people will continue to speak out against authoritarianism until their struggle is won.
**EU Action Needed**
MEP Sánchez Amor emphasized that the EU’s leverage in Georgia lies in imposing personal sanctions on authorities who prioritize their business interests over democratic values. The European Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee will adopt a document concerning political developments in Georgia on June 4, tabled by MEP Rasa Juknevičienė.
As tensions escalate between the Georgian government and civil society, it remains to be seen whether EU action will be sufficient to address the growing human rights concerns in the country.
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