As Georgia gears up for its critical 2024 parliamentary elections, the country faces a test of its democracy amidst ongoing challenges. The upcoming elections will determine the fate of the Georgian Dream party (GD) and its potential fourth term in power. With Georgia recently receiving EU candidacy status in 2023, the stakes have been raised for the country’s Europeanization efforts.
While EU candidacy status is a significant milestone, Georgia must meet the European Commission’s twelve priorities, including implementing democratic reforms and combating corruption. ‘De-oligarchization’ measures are crucial to limit the influence of vested interests in political affairs and strengthen the rule of law in the country.
The democratization of Georgia plays a pivotal role in its pursuit of EU membership. The upcoming elections will determine whether the ruling party commits to democratization and maintaining a pro-western stance in foreign policy. The question remains whether the current leadership will prioritize these essential aspects if they remain in power for the next term.
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Image: Marcin Konsek / source: Wikimedia Commons
Return of a Political Figure
The notable return of oligarch Bidzina Ivanishvili to the political arena as the honorary chairman of the GD party has stirred discussions. Ivanishvili’s influence on Georgian politics has been a subject of concern for democracy-building in the country. His previous exits from politics and subsequent comebacks have shaped the political landscape of Georgia, raising questions about his motivations and impact on governance.
While some view Ivanishvili’s return as an attempt to sway the upcoming elections in 2024 in favor of GD, others speculate on his potential alignment with Russian interests to maintain control over Georgia. Despite his past ties to Russia, Ivanishvili’s actions, such as the failed attempt to pass a controversial law in 2023, have raised doubts about his unwavering loyalty to Moscow.
As Ivanishvili’s influence reshapes the Georgian government, concerns arise about the direction of the country’s foreign policy and democratic trajectory. The upcoming elections will be a litmus test for Georgia’s commitment to EU integration and democratic reforms.
Challenges and Opportunities
The political landscape in Georgia is characterized by a complex interplay of competing interests and ideologies. The opposition parties, while critical of the oligarch regime, face their own internal divisions and challenges. Building coalitions and presenting a unified front against GD requires overcoming historical grievances and aligning on common goals.
Public trust in political parties remains low, with a significant percentage of voters feeling unrepresented. The need for opposition parties to bridge this gap and offer a credible alternative to the current government’s populist agenda is imperative. Demonstrating a clear vision for democratic reforms and EU integration will be key to gaining public support in the upcoming elections.
Looking ahead, the political landscape in Georgia is poised for major shifts as the campaign season ramps up. GD’s stronghold on power, coupled with Ivanishvili’s influence, poses a challenge to the country’s democratic institutions. The opposition’s ability to rally support, forge alliances, and provide a viable alternative to the current government will shape the future of Georgia’s democracy.