Georgian delegation’s powers to be limited in PACE

The powers of the Georgian delegation in the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) will be restricted. This decision comes after the European People’s Party (EPP) raised the issue of removing Georgia from PACE activities.

In order for Tbilisi to restore its full voting rights in PACE, it must meet a series of conditions, after which the decision will be reviewed in April.

The Monitoring Committee stated: “The events following the parliamentary elections held in Georgia on Oct. 26, 2024, including violations of the freedom of gatherings and expression, as well as pressures on the opposition and civil society, are contrary to the country’s obligations as a member of the Council of Europe. Therefore, the committee demands clear guarantees from the Georgian authorities that they are ready to halt democratic backsliding and fulfill their commitments.”

The committee suggests that, as a sign of openness to dialogue, the powers of the Georgian delegation should be validated for the current session.

PACE will make its final decision through a vote on Jan. 29.