Georgia’s hopes of joining the European Union have been dashed as the EU has halted the accession process and frozen financial support due to concerns about a new law restricting democratic freedoms. EU Ambassador to Georgia Pavel Herczynski announced the decision, citing the passing of a controversial law on “foreign influence” despite protests.
Thirty million euros of financial aid for Georgia’s Ministry of Defense in 2024 has been put on hold, with plans to redirect future support to civil society and media. The law forces media, NGOs, and non-profits receiving over 20% of funding from abroad to register as “foreign agents,” sparking criticism and comparisons to Russian legislation.
Euro leaders have condemned the law as undemocratic, jeopardizing Georgia’s EU membership aspirations. The EU had granted Georgia candidate status in December, contingent on reforms. At a recent summit, EU leaders warned that Georgia’s path to membership hinges on repealing the controversial law.
The US has also taken action, suspending military exercises in Georgia as tensions escalate. Despite pushback from Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili, the EU and US are sending strong messages to uphold democratic values and avoid aligning with Russian agendas.