EU Parliament slams Georgia's crackdown on dissent and political prisoners
The European Parliament has issued a strong condemnation of Georgia's ruling party over its treatment of political opponents, journalists, and activists. In a recent resolution, lawmakers criticised the government for using the legal system to silence dissent and restrict democratic freedoms.
The resolution highlights the growing number of political prisoners in Georgia, with search results from February 2026 showing over 120 individuals detained on politically motivated charges. Among them are 14 journalists, alongside opposition figures like Elene Khoshtaria, whose arrest has drawn particular concern.
The European Parliament demanded Khoshtaria's immediate release, along with all others jailed for political reasons. It also called for an end to pre-trial detention as a tool of repression and urged Georgia to repeal laws that limit free speech and political activity. Lawmakers further insisted on independent investigations into claims of detainee mistreatment and the misuse of national laws. They warned that holding political prisoners would violate Georgia's obligations under its EU Association Agreement. In response, the Parliament urged the European Commission and member states to support threatened activists, journalists, and opposition members. It also pushed for targeted sanctions, including visa bans, against officials responsible for politically driven detentions and violence. Despite the criticism, the resolution reaffirmed the European Parliament's support for Georgia's democratic future and its people's European aspirations.
The European Parliament's demands include repealing restrictive laws, ensuring judicial independence, and protecting those facing political persecution. Failure to address these concerns could strain Georgia's relationship with the EU and undermine its path toward closer integration.
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