The European Union Council urges Georgian officials to "urgently return to the EU path and adopt democratic, inclusive, and sustainable reforms that align with the core principles of European integration." This is stated in the EU Council's Enlargement Report.
The report emphasizes the importance of "reengaging with the implementation of the nine steps outlined in the European Commission's 2023 Enlargement Report."
"[The EU] Council is deeply concerned about backsliding in the areas of democracy, the rule of law, and fundamental rights.
Georgia must ensure full respect for fundamental rights, including the freedom of expression and assembly, as well as media freedom, independence, and pluralism, and the rights of LGBTI persons.
Intimidation, violence, and discrimination against civil society representatives, political leaders, civic activists, and journalists must stop. We reiterate that a functional civil society is a critically important component of any democratic system. [The EU] Council calls on Georgia to ensure that its vibrant civil society can operate without restrictions and be actively, inclusively, and meaningfully engaged in decision-making processes," the document states.
Additionally, the report calls on Georgia to investigate and address all electoral violations and allegations.
"[The EU] Council notes with serious concern the preliminary conclusions of OSCE/ODIHR, which highlight that the October 26 parliamentary elections were marked by several shortcomings and took place in a tense and highly polarized environment.
To improve conditions for the proper functioning of democratic institutions, the Council calls on Georgia to investigate and address all electoral violations and allegations. It also urges attention to these and other recommendations from OSCE/ODIHR and Council of Europe bodies, considering that comprehensive electoral reform is part of the [European Commission's] nine steps," the report states.