Georgia elections: fundamental rights under pressure

On 25 October, the FMS, along with the LGBTI Network from the Dutch Labour Party and WECF Georgia,  organised a political café about the important Georgian parliamentary elections happening the next day. The café talked about democracy, the new anti-LGBTI law, and what it means for Georgia’s EU membership. We discussed these topics with Member of the European Parliament Kim van Sparrentak (European Greens), researcher Amy Eaglestone, WECF Georgia activist Shorena Vashadze, and an interested audience.

MEP Kim van Sparrentak talked about the big difference between civil society groups in Western Europe and Georgia. She praised the strong unity among Georgian LGBTI communities and the wider society, which is different from the divided efforts of civil society in Western Europe. Researcher Amy Eaglestone criticised the ruling Georgian Dream party, saying it looks democratic but is supported by undemocratic, pro-Russian forces. She explained how economic issues and powerful people influence voters, even though the public wants to join the EU.

WECF activist Shorena Vashadze shared her worries about the Georgian Dream party’s tactics, like forcing people to join pro-government protests. Despite these problems, she expressed hope, especially through the voices of women and ethnic minorities working for a better future.

The café highlighted how the foreign agents law and anti-LGBTI legislation are used to silence dissent and align with Russian interests. The speakers stressed the need for solidarity and active steps to fight disinformation and support democracy. The event also discussed the wider geopolitical effects, comparing it to other EU-linked countries facing democratic challenges.

As the Georgian elections approached, the café was an important place to raise awareness and talk about the future of democracy and human rights in Georgia.