On behalf of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), Vice-President of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee of the French Senate; Special coordinator of the OSCE and leader of the short-term observer mission Pascal Alizard addresses the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia, Maka Bochorishvili, with a letter.

"Dear Excellency, Following the first session of the new legislature of the Georgian Parliament, I am addressing youwith a view to contribute to our future work and co-operation.As you are aware, I had the privilege of serving as the Special Coordinator and Leader of the shortterm OSCE observer mission during the recent parliamentary elections in Georgia. This missionsought to observe and assess the electoral process, contributing to its transparency and integrity, asis practice throughout the entire OSCE region.The preliminary findings of the observation mission highlighted both strengths and challengeswithin the electoral process. The elections provided voters with a wide array of choices and werewell-administered in terms of technical preparations. Candidates could generally campaign freelywhile the campaign rhetoric was highly divisive and polarized. But as you have noticed in our jointpreliminary findings and conclusions, we also raised some critical concerns. These included issuesrelated to voter pressure and uneven playing fields due to financial imbalances, theunderrepresentation of women on party lists and other challenges.One issue that was of particular concern was the recently adopted legislation and its impact onfundamental freedoms and Georgia’s civil society. Our findings, which should always be consideredin a package, altogether underline the importance of addressing key areas to strengthen public trustand democratic standards.

Looking ahead, I trust that the Georgian Government and Parliament will follow up with dueattention to the findings and recommendations, thereby lending a substantive contribution in theadvancement of the national reform agenda and increasing public confidence.With these considerations in mind, I would strongly encourage you and your colleagues inParliament to study the preliminary report in detail and to engage closely with the ODIHR whenthe final report will be issued. It will offer a comprehensive analysis, and specific recommendations,which can provide a sound basis for drafting relevant electoral reforms during the course of the legislature you have just started. Such reflections will be essential as Georgia navigates its ongoingpolitical processes and works to enhance its democratic institutions.In light of the challenges identified, the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly stands ready as well to engageand assist Georgia in addressing these issues. Our collective aim is to support your country in itsjourney towards stronger democratic governance and the rule of law, institution building as well asfostering an environment of inclusivity, transparency, and respect for fundamental freedoms.Please do not hesitate to reach out should you require any support or collaboration in theseendeavors. We look forward to witnessing the continued progress of Georgia in consolidating itsdemocratic aspirations," the letter says.