ESU Statement regarding current developments in Georgia

The European Students’ Union (ESU) expresses concern over the recent actions of the Georgian government, raising doubts about hindering progress towards European integration and condemns the violence towards student protestors.

Since 29 November 2024, thousands of Georgian citizens have gathered in Tbilisi to express their concerns on the government’s decision not to proactively raise the issue of launching the EU accession talks on political agenda with the European Union until 2028. These demonstrations reflect the citizens’ firm commitment to Georgia’s European aspirations. However, the response by national authorities has raised significant concerns, as many protesters have reportedly been subject to violence and arrest, with troubling allegations of mistreatment, among them many young persons and students.

Numerous international organizations have raised concerns about the processes of the October 26th elections, with the European Parliament sharing these concerns. Several organizations called for the election results to be reviewed, and recommended that a new election be conducted under international supervision to ensure transparency and fairness.

The European Students’ Union in collaboration with the Georgian Students’ Organisation Association (GSOA), as stated in a joint resolution on ESU’s support towards European integration of Georgia, recently emphasized that Georgia’s young generation desires the future of their country as a member of the European community.

ESU therefore calls upon the public authorities in Georgia:

• Immediately monitor and investigate all acts of violence against protesters, including students, and ensure their safety and right to peaceful assembly;
• Uphold the rule of law in relation to the recent elections, in accordance with the recommendations of OSCE/ODIHR’s report;
• Respect and seriously consider the aspirations of Georgian youth, including by explaining November 28 decision on Georgia’s EU integration process;
• Honour and act in accordance with the will of the Georgian people, supporting their vision for the country’s future.