The UK government urges the Georgian authorities to investigate all irregularities identified in the parliamentary elections. This statement was made by Stephen Doughty, the State Minister for US and European Affairs.
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According to Stephen Doughty, the UK supports the preliminary findings of the OSCE/ODIHR Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) regarding the October 26 parliamentary elections in Georgia. The United Kingdom had 50 representatives in this observation mission.
"The report finds the misuse of administrative resources, a highly polarized campaign environment, as well as widespread intimidation and coercion against voters. Along with the impact on civil society of Georgia’s Law on Transparency of Foreign Influence, these are not the actions of an open, democratic society and run contrary to international standards.
The Georgian authorities must investigate all irregularities and reverse this declining commitment to democracy. We will be monitoring this closely together with our international partners, and stand ready to support," said Steven Doughty.
According to the preliminary findings of the OSCE/ODIHR, election day was procedurally well organized but marked by tension, frequent violations of the secrecy of voting, intensive voter registration, and reports of intimidation and pressure, all of which negatively impacted public confidence in the process. The International Monitoring Mission noted reports of pressure on voters, particularly those employed in the public sector, throughout the entire pre-election period.
The foreign ministers of EU member states also expressed concern about the violations observed during the elections, emphasizing the importance of conducting elections in a free and fair environment.
According to US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, the US condemns all violations of international norms and supports calls for a full investigation of all reports related to election violations. "International observers have not declared the result to be free and fair," Blinken stated.
