Georgian PM criticizes EU visa pressure amid election tensions

The Georgian government, led by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, is facing significant pressure from the European Union regarding its democratic practices ahead of the upcoming elections on October 26. Reports suggest that the EU may revoke the visa-free travel agreement for Georgian citizens if the country continues to backslide on democracy and the rule of law. This agreement, established in 2017, allows Georgians to travel to EU countries without a visa for up to six months a year, a privilege that could be jeopardized by recent authoritarian measures taken by the ruling party. In a recent speech, Kobakhidze dismissed the EU's warnings as 'cheap blackmail,' asserting that the entire society is being punished for the government's actions. The ruling Georgian Dream party has introduced laws that effectively ban public references to same-sex relationships, mirroring repressive measures seen in Russia. This legislation has sparked outrage and protests, leading to a heavy-handed crackdown on demonstrators by authorities. The situation has escalated tensions between Georgia and the EU, with the latter effectively freezing Georgia's candidacy for EU membership. Despite the government's claims of public support for its measures, the U.S. has imposed sanctions on key Georgian officials for undermining democracy. The upcoming elections are critical, as the Georgian Dream party has indicated intentions to suppress opposition parties if it secures a victory. As the political landscape in Georgia shifts, the implications of these developments could significantly affect the country's future relations with both the EU and the West, as well as the rights and freedoms of its citizens.