Georgia has negotiated to become a member of the EU. Though, the party Georgian Dream has put all talks about the EU on hold until 2028.This happened last week.
This has led to large demonstrations. In the capital Tbilisi, there have been demonstrations for five consecutive evenings.
The demonstrators believe that Georgian Dream will lead the country further away from the EU to come closer to Russia. The party denies this.
The police have arrested several demonstrators, according to Georgia’s Ministry of Internal affairs.
Condemns the violence
some demonstrators have been pursued by the police. The police have beaten with clubs or shot with rubber bullets, reports NRK.
Mark rutte condemns the violence against the demonstrators. Rutte is the head of NATO.
– The reports of violence are deeply disturbing. I condemn them in the strongest terms, rutte said to the press.
Wants Georgia in the EU
The government of Germany states that they still want georgia to join the EU. This is reported by the news agency NTB.
– We are following the developments with concern. The massive protests we have seen in recent days clearly show that many people in Georgia still want a future in the EU. This is stated by Sebastian Fischer. He is speaking on behalf of the German government.
How does international support for Georgia’s EU aspirations impact the current protests?
Interview: Georgia’s EU Membership Aspirations and Current Protests
Editor: Welcome, Dr. anna Petadze, an expert in Eastern European political affairs.Thank you for joining us today to discuss the current situation in Georgia regarding its EU membership talks and the recent protests.
Dr. Petadze: Thank you for having me.This is a critical moment for Georgia,and I’m glad to share my insights.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. Georgia recently negotiated to become a member of the EU, but the ruling party, Georgian Dream, has put talks on hold until 2028. What are the implications of this decision?
Dr. Petadze: The decision to pause EU membership talks until 2028 is quite significant. It creates uncertainty not only within Georgia but also in the broader region. Many citizens feel that this move distances them from the EU and brings them closer to Russia,a sentiment that’s driving the large-scale protests we’re witnessing in Tbilisi.
Editor: These protests have been ongoing for five consecutive evenings now. Can you tell us more about the demonstrators’ motivations?
Dr. Petadze: Absolutely. The demonstrators are primarily concerned that Georgian Dream’s halt on EU negotiations signifies a shift in foreign policy, perhaps aligning more with Russian interests. There’s a strong desire among many Georgians for integration with the West, and they fear losing that progress.The police responses have escalated tensions,leading to clashes that many view as a suppression of their democratic rights.
Editor: The situation has seen reports of police violence against demonstrators, with condemnation from figures like Mark Rutte, head of NATO. How does international condemnation affect the situation in Georgia?
Dr. Petadze: International condemnation can amplify the cries for justice among protesters and put pressure on the Georgian government to reassess its tactics. Statements from authorities like Mark Rutte can provide moral support to the movement and highlight Georgia’s aspirations for EU membership in the eyes of the world, encouraging those who still believe in a European future.
Editor: Germany has expressed a continued desire for Georgia to join the EU. What message does this send to both the protesters and the government?
Dr. Petadze: Germany’s support emphasizes that there are still Western allies invested in Georgia’s future. For the protesters, it sends a hopeful message that their aspirations are heard globally. For the Georgian government, it serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of diverging from the path towards European integration.
Editor: Given these developments, what practical advice can you offer to individuals interested in supporting the movement for EU membership in Georgia?
Dr. Petadze: Individuals can support the movement by staying informed and advocating for human rights.Engaging in discussions on social media to amplify the voices of Georgian citizens can also make a difference. Additionally, contacting local representatives to express support for Georgia’s EU aspirations is crucial, as public pressure can influence foreign policy.
Editor: Thank you for that valuable insight, Dr. Petadze. As the situation evolves, it’s essential for us to stay engaged and informed about Georgia’s path toward EU membership and the ongoing protests.
Dr. petadze: Thank you for having me. It’s vital for both the readers and the international community to care about Georgia’s journey.
Editor: Indeed it is indeed. We’ll continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as they come. Thank you to our readers for joining us today.