The Georgian Dream party has joined a newly formed political group within the Council of Europe’s Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, a move described as a “little brother” to the right-wing Patriots for Europe group in the European Parliament. Announced on Tuesday, this new group, Patriots for Europe in Congress, aims to “further strengthen the cooperation of sovereigntist, patriotic European politicians.” It comprises 29 delegates from six countries, including representatives from Fidesz–KDNP in Hungary, Lega in Italy, ANO 2011 in the Czech Republic, Georgian Dream, the Freedom Party of Austria, and Vox in Spain. Anna Magyar, from Fidesz, chairs the group, with Richard Veres of ANO 2011 and Nino Vardosanidze of Georgian Dream serving as vice-chairs.
Vardosanidze, a key figure in Tbilisi City Council, emphasized the group’s timely and necessary creation. Many of the participating parties are considered right-wing populist or far-right, and have faced criticism for aligning with Russia. The formation follows a period of strained relations between Georgia and its Western partners, marked by disputed elections, restrictive laws, and a suspension of EU membership aspirations.
This context fuels accusations of Georgia drifting towards Russia. The Georgian Dream party, currently not a member of any European Parliament group, has withdrawn from the Party of European Socialists, citing ideological differences and criticism of Prime Minister Gharibashvili’s participation in a conservative conference. Critics within the European Democratic Party have voiced concerns, alleging that the Georgian Dream’s entry into Patriots for Europe in Congress reflects a deliberate targeting of its critics, citing a pattern of actions against NGOs, independent media, and pro-European protests.
The situation underscores a complex dynamic within europe, with the georgian dream navigating shifting alliances and geopolitical pressures.
Topics: #europe #georgian #dream
