Georgia has expressed its intention to take on a facilitator role in strengthening peace and stability in the South Caucasus. This statement was made by Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Bochorishvili during a joint press conference with Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan. She emphasized Georgia’s willingness to assist in the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
While Georgia’s geographical position and historical role as a regional actor may provide certain strategic advantages, its democratic backsliding raises significant concerns about its credibility as a neutral facilitator. Over the past 64 days, mass protests have erupted across various cities in Georgia, reflecting widespread public dissatisfaction with the government’s increasingly authoritarian tendencies. These protests, sparked by concerns over political repression, media restrictions, and governance failures, have led to growing criticism from democratic nations, including the United States and European Union member states.
Georgia’s retreat from European integration stands in stark contrast to Armenia’s ongoing EU accession process. The ruling Georgian Dream party has not only slowed down reforms necessary for European integration but has also faced allegations of deepening ties with authoritarian states, diverging from its once pro-Western trajectory. Against this backdrop, Georgia’s aspiration to position itself as a peace mediator appears inconsistent with its internal governance challenges and deteriorating international standing.
While Armenia may engage with Georgia’s facilitation efforts, it must do so cautiously, ensuring that its national interests are safeguarded. Given Georgia’s wavering commitment to Western democratic values, influential global actors such as the U.S. and EU are unlikely to allow Tbilisi to gain undue leverage in regional peace processes. Instead, any attempt by Georgia to assume a central role must be evaluated within a broader institutional framework that prevents the misuse of conflicts for geopolitical bargaining.
The complex dynamics at play necessitate a strategic approach that prevents any single regional player from manipulating the conflict in ways that could undermine Armenia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Institutionalizing diplomatic engagements and ensuring transparency in mediation efforts will be crucial to maintaining a balanced and equitable approach to regional conflict resolution.
