According to a recent BBC investigation, the Georgian police deployed against peaceful protesters a chemical weapon first developed during the First World War and not used in public-order policing for generations. The European Greens consider this development deeply troubling and fully consistent with the broader pattern of excessive force previously condemned.
On 10 December, the preliminary finding of the Georgian internal investigation rejected the claim. The Georgian authorities’ immediate reaction was to deny the allegations, and to label the BBC a “fake media” organisation, as well as to target experts, witnesses, human rights defenders and journalists whose testimonies were presented in the documentary, Amnesty International reported.
‘The people of Georgia have shown unwavering courage in defending their democratic rights,” said Ciarán Cuffe, Co-Chair of the European Green Party. “Georgian Dream's attempts to silence civil society and intimidate protestors have no place in a country that aspires to a future in the European Union. The EU must stay firmly on the side of those who stand for democracy, accountability and fundamental freedoms. The Georgian authorities denied the BBC’s findings, but there is a need for an independent - international - investigation. The European Greens urge EU institutions to ensure that the cases are thoroughly examined. We call on the European institutions for actions and to impose sanctions on those responsible for violent actions taking place in Georgia.”
“Georgian citizens clearly support democratic reforms, the rule of law, and a European future,” said Vula Tsetsi, Co-Chair of the European Green Party. “Yet through Georgian Dream, Russia’s influence in Georgia remains a serious and growing threat. Even in the face of intimidation and the alleged use of chemical agents, people continue to show extraordinary determination in resisting authoritarianism. The EU must respond decisively, including through targeted sanctions against those responsible for repression and violence, and send a clear message that intimidation, authoritarianism, and pro-Russian drift will not be tolerated”.
The European Greens reiterate their commitment to supporting Georgia’s civil society, democratic forces and citizens who continue to work for a European future grounded in justice, transparency and respect for human rights.
