Georgia is at risk of losing its visa-free travel privileges to the European Union due to concerns over the country’s democratic backsliding. This issue has sparked significant domestic and international debate.
Opposition’s Response
Opposition leaders in Georgia are strongly advocating for the preservation of visa-free travel rights for the country’s citizens. They have called on the EU to take action against the ruling Georgian Dream party, accusing it of authoritarian reforms that have strained relations with the European Union.
Georgian Dream’s Reaction
In contrast, the ruling Georgian Dream party has accused the EU of using visa-free travel as leverage. They argue that this is an attempt to undermine Georgia’s sovereignty and push the country away from its Western alliances.
Concerns Over Suspension
On April 17, 2025, concern grew in Georgia over the potential suspension of its visa-free access to the EU. Some view the EU’s consideration of this move as political pressure aimed at influencing Georgia’s political direction. This concern intensified after a German diplomat described the visa-free arrangement as a “privilege” rather than a right. On April 15, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty reported that the EU was exploring the possibility of suspending Georgia’s visa-free access later in 2025.
The Visa-Free Agreement
Georgia’s visa-free agreement with the EU, which began in March 2017, allowed its citizens to travel to EU member states without a visa. Since then, over 1.15 million Georgians have benefited from this opportunity for tourism, business, and travel. However, a troubling trend has emerged: nearly 300,000 of these travelers have chosen to stay in the EU, mainly for employment.
Mixed Reactions Within Georgia
The potential suspension of the visa-free regime has led to mixed reactions within Georgia. Opposition leaders are concerned about the impact on the public but recognize that the EU has the right to set standards for such privileges. They stress that they don’t want the entire population to suffer because of the government’s actions, but they also believe the EU’s decision serves as a reminder of the importance of democratic values.
Earlier in the year, the EU suspended visa-free travel for holders of Georgian diplomatic passports due to concerns about the country’s democratic backsliding. This was followed by calls from the European Parliament for stricter sanctions against Georgia, especially after the introduction of laws deemed repressive. These laws are seen as an attempt to consolidate power and limit fundamental freedoms, raising alarms that Georgia may be heading toward authoritarianism.
Georgian Government’s Defiance
Despite growing international criticism, the Georgian Dream party has firmly rejected accusations of democratic backsliding. The government argues that the EU’s stance is an effort to push Georgia into closer alignment with Western political and economic interests, particularly regarding the ongoing conflict with Russia. The ruling party views the EU’s actions as a form of coercion.
Setback in EU Integration
In November 2024, the Georgian government made the controversial decision to halt discussions on EU accession. Opposition figures see this as a major setback for Georgia’s EU integration, raising doubts about the country’s future in the European Union. Many believe this decision could signal the end of the visa-free regime and complicate Georgia’s pursuit of EU membership.
Importance of Visa-Free Travel
For many Georgians, the visa-free regime is more than just a convenience—it represents the country’s aspirations to join the European family. It symbolizes Georgia’s commitment to democratic values and closer ties with the West. Opposition leaders warn that the rhetoric from the government, especially claims that the EU is using the visa-free privilege as blackmail, could further isolate Georgia from Europe.
Hope for the Future
Some former Georgian officials remain cautiously optimistic, suggesting that the EU may wait until after Georgia’s local elections in October 2025 before making a final decision on the visa-free travel suspension. This would give Georgia a chance to demonstrate its commitment to democratic reforms and address the EU’s concerns.
Uncertain Future
Georgia’s relationship with the European Union remains uncertain. While there are hopes for a return to democratic development, the government’s continued suppression of pro-democracy protests and undermining of democratic institutions make progress seem increasingly unlikely. The suspension of the visa-free regime could mark a critical turning point, forcing Georgia to reevaluate its political priorities and its position in Europe. With the government’s resistance to international pressure, the path forward is unclear, and the stakes for Georgian citizens are high.
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