The Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) issued a critical report concerning democratic decline in georgia. This extensive document, released under the Moscow Mechanism, highlights a “marked democratic backsliding” within the country and includes recommendations for both the georgia government and the international community. Prepared by rapporteur Patrycja Grzebyk following meetings with government, opposition, and civil society representatives, the report analyzed a substantial amount of material within a 14-day timeframe.
The investigation revealed a pattern of violence and abuses against protesters, opposition leaders, and journalists, sometimes reaching levels of torture with near-total impunity. Authorities have progressively curtailed freedoms of expression, assembly, and association through legislation targeting civil society, political opposition, independent media, and the LGBT+ community, utilizing measures like fines and administrative detention. The ruling party’s attempts to ban opposition parties and the atmosphere of hostility towards independent actors, including physical attacks, were also noted.
The osce report stresses the need for legislative reforms, specifically the repeal of restrictive laws such as the foreign agent law and anti-queer legislation, alongside improvements to judicial independence and electoral processes. It calls for the “immediate and unconditional release” of individuals detained for political reasons, including journalists, and urges an end to disproportionate use of force against peaceful protesters. Recommendations also include withdrawing legal bans on opposition parties, conducting independent investigations into electoral violations, implementing OSCE recommendations for electoral changes, and ensuring the timely invitation of external observers, particularly from the OSCE/ODIHR, for upcoming elections.
The osce previously did not observe the 2025 georgia local vote due to short notice. The report emphasizes fair trial standards, guarantees of judicial independence, and respect for spontaneous gatherings and protests.
Topics: #georgia #osce #report
The Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) has published a severe assessment regarding Georgia’s deterioration of democratic standards. This detailed report, produced under the Mo