At the 47th session of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe in Strasbourg, following an urgent debate, a critical declaration regarding the situation in Georgia was adopted. The declaration, presented by the Vice President of the Congress, Xavier Cadore, was supported by 76 members, with 10 voting against it.
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The Congress expresses deep concern over the clear signs of democratic backsliding and the weakening of human rights in Georgia, as evidenced by increased polarization in society and the enactment of legislation that contradicts the standards of the Council of Europe.
The declaration emphasizes the need for effective protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including non-discrimination and freedom of assembly.
"Local authorities must not be put in a position when they are required by law to violate human rights and fundamental freedoms or to implement anti-democratic policies to the detriment of inclusivity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence within their communities," the declaration states.
In light of this, the Congress once again calls on the Georgian authorities to repeal laws that undermine human rights and to refrain from actions that threaten political pluralism, violate human rights, or weaken the foundations of democracy.
"Georgia should return to the path of democratic consolidation and recommit to democratic principles and respect for human rights," the declaration states.
The Congress also reminds the Georgian authorities of their obligation to fulfill the commitments reaffirmed in the Reykjavik Declaration in May 2023, warning that they may be held accountable by the bodies of the Council of Europe if they fail to do so.
