Georgia’s European Aspirations Hit Roadblock Amidst Disinformation Controversy
Tbilisi, Georgia – A diplomatic row has erupted between Georgia and several European Union member states following accusations of disinformation spread by Georgian Dream Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze. The controversy stems from discussions held during the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting on December 16, where the deteriorating political situation in Georgia and potential sanctions against members of the ruling Georgian Dream party were key topics of debate. Kobakhidze’s claim that Romania, Italy, and Spain opposed sanctions against Georgian Dream officials during the meeting was swiftly refuted by the respective countries, sparking a war of words and raising concerns about Georgia’s commitment to transparency and its European aspirations.
The heart of the dispute lies in Kobakhidze’s assertion that Romania, Italy, and Spain had “defended the interests of the Georgian people” by voting against sanctions proposed by EU High Representative Josep Borrell. These proposals reportedly included sanctions against Georgian Dream officials and the suspension of visa-free travel for diplomatic passport holders. However, the three countries categorically denied these claims, issuing strongly worded statements condemning Kobakhidze’s remarks as "inaccurate," "disinformation," and a "blatant example of misrepresentation." They reaffirmed their concerns about Georgia’s backsliding on democratic reforms and the violent suppression of protests, stressing their support for measures proposed by Borrell.
Romania, in a particularly pointed rebuke, expressed "deep disappointment" at Kobakhidze’s mischaracterization of internal EU discussions. Italy underscored its condemnation of the violence in Georgia and its support for measures aimed at holding those responsible accountable. Spain, meanwhile, emphasized the threat that disinformation poses to democracies and its commitment to opposing such tactics. The rapid and coordinated responses from these three EU member states highlight the seriousness with which they view the allegations and their determination to counter any attempts to distort their positions.
The incident underscores the growing tension between Georgia and the European Union over the Georgian Dream government’s perceived authoritarian drift. The EU has repeatedly expressed concern about the deterioration of the rule of law, media freedom, and the independence of the judiciary in Georgia. The violent crackdown on protests earlier this year, sparked by a controversial “foreign agents” law, further strained relations and led to calls for sanctions against Georgian officials deemed responsible for the repression.
While Hungary and Slovakia reportedly vetoed the proposed sanctions against Georgian Dream officials, the EU Council did request the European Commission to prepare a document outlining the suspension of visa-free travel for Georgian diplomatic passports. This measure requires only a qualified majority and is seen as a less drastic step than individual sanctions, but still a significant signal of the EU’s displeasure with the current political trajectory in Georgia. The Georgian Dream government’s reaction to the EU’s actions has been defiant, with Kobakhidze accusing the EU of being influenced by a "radical opposition" and dismissing concerns about democratic backsliding.
The disinformation controversy further complicates Georgia’s bid for EU membership. The country’s aspirations to join the bloc have been a cornerstone of its foreign policy for years, but recent developments have cast doubt on its commitment to the democratic values and reforms required for accession. The EU has made it clear that progress on democratic reforms is a prerequisite for further integration, and the Georgian Dream government’s actions appear to be moving the country further away from, rather than closer to, fulfilling these criteria. The spread of disinformation, as alleged by the EU member states, further erodes trust and raises questions about Georgia’s willingness to engage in good faith with its European partners. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Georgia on its path towards European integration and the importance of upholding democratic principles and transparent communication.