The Georgian Dream (GD) government’s announcement to suspend EU accession negotiations until 2028 has ignited widespread protests, opposition unity, and international backlash. This decision, framed by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze as a move for Georgia to “join the EU on its own terms,” has been labeled as a significant setback to Georgia’s European aspirations, threatening to isolate the nation on the global stage.
On November 28, GD leader Irakli Kobakhidze declared that Georgia would pause EU accession talks and reject EU budget support, citing plans for a “dignified” entry into the EU by 2030. This announcement contradicts established EU accession procedures and has been described by critics as a move to consolidate power domestically while abandoning the constitutional goal of European integration enshrined in Article 78 of Georgia’s Constitution. The decision follows contested October 26 parliamentary elections marred by allegations of vote-rigging, which opposition parties and President Salome Zurabishvili claim render the government illegitimate. The European Parliament has echoed these concerns, calling for sanctions against GD leaders and fresh elections.
President Salome Zurabishvili has taken a leading role in opposing the GD government, describing their decision as a “constitutional coup.” In a powerful statement, she called on opposition leaders, civil servants, police, and military personnel to stand with the Georgian people. Zurabishvili emphasized the urgent need for international support, urging the EU to back new elections in Georgia. “Today, this illegitimate government has declared not peace but war,” Zurabishvili said, accusing GD of steering Georgia away from its European path and toward increased Russian influence. She called on Georgian diplomats and civil servants to prioritize the country’s long-term interests and warned of the existential threat posed by isolation from Western partners.
The government’s decision has spurred protests nationwide. Demonstrators in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Zugdidi, and Batumi have taken to the streets, rallying in front of government buildings, including the Georgian Dream headquarters and the Presidential Administration. In Tbilisi, police mobilized heavily, arresting peaceful demonstrators, including activist Misha Mumladze, whose detention sparked further outrage. Representatives from the cultural sector and civil society have joined the protests, labeling the decision a betrayal of Georgia’s democratic and European aspirations. Activist Rati Amaglobeli called for a new phase of resistance, urging citizens to oppose what he described as the “Russian regime” within Georgia.
Dozens of Georgian diplomats have issued a joint statement opposing the government’s decision, warning that it contradicts Georgia’s strategic interests and risks permanent isolation. They highlighted that the current geopolitical landscape offers a unique window for EU integration, and failing to seize this opportunity would endanger Georgia’s future. The diplomats reaffirmed their commitment to the country’s constitutional goal of European integration, emphasizing that suspending EU negotiations undermines years of diplomatic efforts to align Georgia with Western institutions.
The decision to halt EU accession negotiations marks a significant turning point in Georgia’s foreign policy. It isolates the country from its European allies, undermines democratic processes, and intensifies fears of Russian influence. While GD frames this move as a bid for sovereignty, opposition leaders and civil society argue that it jeopardizes Georgia’s independence and long-term development. The protests and international criticism highlight the growing divide between the government and the Georgian people’s aspirations for a European future.