OSCE Troika condemns Georgian authorities' actions against “peaceful protests”

The Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe’s Troika group, composed of Malta, North Macedonia and Finland, on Friday condemned the Georgian Government's actions against ongoing protests sparked by its decision last month to postpone the European Union accession talks until 2028. 

The trio criticised the use of "violent responses”, “repressive tactics”, and “intimidation”, including “arbitrary detention and physical violence”, against demonstrators advocating for “Georgia's democratic future”. 

They called for an “immediate cessation” of such measures and urged Georgian authorities to ensure the rights to freedom of assembly and expression, in line with the country's international obligations.

The Troika also demanded “credible investigations” into allegations of violence, election fraud in the parliamentary vote held in October, and “attacks on democratic values”, with accountability for those responsible. 

“We urge the Georgian authorities to uphold human rights, democracy, and the rule of law in line with our shared OSCE principles and commitments”, the statement said, referencing foundational documents such as the Helsinki Final Act and the Charter of Paris.

The group encouraged Georgia to use OSCE tools and expertise to address the issues and reaffirmed its readiness to facilitate dialogue.