European Commission: The assessment that Georgia is a candidate country in name only remains in effect

Georgia's EU accession process remains de facto halted, according to a statement released by the European Commission’s press service regarding the 2026 enlargement package.

The statement notes that "the Commission's assessment of Georgia as a candidate country in name only remains valid."

"Georgia's EU accession process remains de facto halted, and the Commission's assessment of Georgia as a candidate country in name only remains valid. Georgia continues to fall short of the nine steps set out in the Commission's recommendation for candidate status, as the ruling party has continued to undermine democratic principles, the rule of law, fundamental rights and civic space, while enabling further state capture.

Unless Georgian authorities change course and recommit to the fundamental principles underpinning EU accession, Georgia will continue to miss out on the benefits of candidate status and the pre-accession process.

The EU's longstanding support for Georgia's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity remains unwavering, as does its support for the European aspirations of the Georgian people," reads.