Enhancing the count of EU-backed initiatives within education and vocational development sectors is among the Commission's proposals.

German Parliamentary Delegation Urges Fair Elections and European Orientation in Georgia

A delegation of German Members of Parliament, led by Jürgen Hardt (CDU), Nils Schmid (SPD), Ulrich Lechte (FDP), and Deborah Düring (Alliance 90/The Greens), visited Georgia from September 4 to 6, 20XX. The purpose of their visit was to advocate for fair and free elections scheduled for October and the continuation of Georgia's European orientation.

The parliamentary elections on October 26 are a crucial moment for Georgia's democratic future. The group commended the commitment of Georgian civil society to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, emphasising the importance of a strong, independent civil society for democratic development in Georgia.

The international community will closely observe the election process in Georgia. The group expressed concern over recent authoritarian tendencies and undemocratic measures, which they believe are undermining the democratic will for EU membership. If the current government's course continues, the German Bundestag may not approve the start of EU accession negotiations.

The law on 'transparency of foreign influence' in Georgia potentially threatens fundamental freedoms and weakens civil society. The parliamentary group reaffirms their support for the Georgian population's desire for the path to the EU, and they highlighted that strengthening human rights and the rule of law is not only crucial for Georgia's future but also sends a clear signal to the international community.

The group emphasised the importance of the work of non-governmental organisations for the democratic process in Georgia. Free and fair elections are the foundation of every democracy, and the invitation to international election observers has been welcomed.

The statement highlights that a broad majority of the Georgian population wants Georgia to become a member of the European Union. The parliamentary group reaffirmed their support for this aspiration, reiterating that Article 78 of the Georgian Constitution enshrines EU membership as a state goal.

The group called for a peaceful and fair electoral environment, expressing solidarity with Georgian civil society. They urged the current government to take steps to block Georgia's path to the EU and instead focus on strengthening human rights and the rule of law. The purpose of the visit was to emphasise the importance of these issues and to encourage a democratic and European future for Georgia.

Enhancing the count of EU-backed initiatives within education and vocational development sectors is among the Commission's proposals.