EU suspends visa-free travel for Georgian diplomats over alleged democratic backsliding

LONDON

The EU suspended visa-free travel Friday for Georgian holders of diplomatic, service and official passports, citing concerns about democratic backsliding and a crackdown on protesters, journalists and opposition figures.

EU's foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas wrote on the US social media company X that “if a government attacks its own people, silences journalists, and curtails freedom, there are consequences.”

The decision follows a series of measures by Georgian authorities that Brussels said undermine democracy and the rule of law.

On March 4, the Georgian Parliament adopted a legislative package governing foreign funding and political activity.

The EU said in a statement that the new laws impose an extensive system of state control on political activity, introduce potential criminal liability for receiving foreign support and contain vague provisions that create legal uncertainty and risks of arbitrary enforcement.

The EU criticized the moves as violations of international human rights obligations and commitments under the EU‑Georgia Association Agreement, warning that it could move Georgia further from its EU membership ambitions.

Authorities have also been accused of unjustly detaining politicians, journalists, and activists, whom the EU said should be released immediately.

The EU reiterated its long-standing assistance to Georgia, including economic support, expanded trade opportunities, scholarships for young people, and security cooperation.

Citizens of Georgia continue to travel visa-free within the EU.

The EU expressed regret that the actions put the country’s partnership with Brussels at serious risk, noting that Georgia is currently a candidate country in name only.