EU calls on Georgian authorities to investigate election irregularities swiftly and transparently

Following the parliamentary elections held in Georgia on 26 October, the European Union has called on the Central Election Commission of Georgia and other relevant authorities to fulfil their duty to “swiftly, transparently and independently investigate and adjudicate electoral irregularities and allegations thereof”. 

“Those irregularities must be clarified and addressed. That is a necessary step to rebuilding trust in the electoral process,” said a joint Statement released on Sunday by the High Representative Josep Borrell and the European Commission.

The statement cites the preliminary findings and conclusions of the International Election Observation Mission led by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR). They say that “election day was generally procedurally well-organised and administered in an orderly manner but marked by a tense environment, with frequent compromises in vote secrecy and several procedural inconsistencies, as well as reports of intimidation and pressure on voters that negatively impacted public trust in the process. Reports of pressure on voters, particularly on public sector employees, remained widespread in the campaign. This, coupled with extensive tracking of voters on election day, raised concerns about the ability of some voters to cast their vote without fear of retribution.”

Moreover, election observers reported an uneven playing field, a divisive campaign in a polarised atmosphere and significant concerns over the impact of recent legislative amendments on this election process, the statement said. It added that the EU looked forward to the final OSCE/ODIHR report and recommendations, which should be implemented as soon as possible.

The EU also called for “constructive and inclusive dialogue across the political spectrum”, “democratic, comprehensive and sustainable reforms, in line with the core principles of European integration”, and the repeal of any legislation that undermines the fundamental rights and freedoms of Georgian citizens.

European Council President Charles Michel said on X after the elections that he intended to put Georgia on the agenda of the informal European Council (EUCO) that will take place on 8 November in Budapest. “The November EUCO will assess the situation and set the next steps in our relations with Georgia,” he said.

Georgia President Salome Zourabichvili urged Georgia’s international partners “to protect Georgia by standing with the people, not an illegitimate government”. 

“Just as you opposed the Russian law, we ask you to stand with us again. These elections are illegitimate, and nothing can change that,” Zourabichvili said.

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