**UK Warns Georgia Over Crackdown on Civil Society and Opposition**
The British government has taken a strong stance against the Georgian Dream government, summoning the country’s chargé d’affaires to protest the crackdown on civil society, independent media, and political opposition. The move comes as six opposition leaders in Georgia were recently sentenced to months in prison over their refusal to appear before an investigative commission.
According to the UK’s Foreign Office, a senior official met with Georgian chargé d’affaires George Saganelidze on June 30 to express “firm position” against the government’s actions. The meeting was held after opposition leaders in Georgia were sentenced to prison for refusing to appear before an investigative commission that they do not recognize as legitimate.
The UK’s warning to Georgia is a significant development, given the country’s aspirations to join the Euro-Atlantic community. The British government has made it clear that the imprisonment of prominent opposition leaders is incompatible with any remaining Euro-Atlantic aspirations held by Georgian Dream. This message is also reflected in the UK’s previous sanctions against senior Interior Ministry officials and other high-level officials who have been involved in violent crackdowns on protests.
**UK Condemns Georgian Government’s Actions**
The British government has condemned the Georgian Dream government’s actions, stating that they are a clear attempt to stifle dissent and crack down on freedoms. The UK’s spokesperson emphasized that the detention of election rivals is incompatible with any remaining Euro-Atlantic aspirations held by Georgian Dream as well as their own constitutional commitments.
This move by the UK is also significant given the recent sanctions imposed against senior Interior Ministry officials, including now-former GD Minister Vakhtang Gomelauri. The sanctions were imposed amid violent crackdowns on protests in December 2024.
**UK’s Message to Georgia**
The British government has made it clear that they will not hesitate to consider further action should Georgia not return to respecting and upholding democracy, freedoms, and human rights. This message is a direct warning to the Georgian Dream government that their actions have consequences and that the UK will take steps to protect democratic values.
**Georgia’s Response**
The Georgian government has responded to the UK’s warnings by accusing the British executive and legislative branches of casting a shadow over the strategic partnership and friendship between the two countries. This response is seen as an attempt to deflect criticism and downplay the seriousness of the situation.
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