Viola von Cramon, member of the European Parliament and a leading member of DEG (Democracy Support and Election Coordination Group), commented on recent developments in Georgia:

“While it is commendable how well the Georgian government is handling the corona crisis, it is equally regrettable to see Georgian Dream instrumentalizing the pandemic to question the premises agreed in March. One more unkept promise will irrevocably render Georgian Dream as an unreliable and irresponsible partner.

It is crucial that alleged violations of law are investigated and assessed by an independent justice system. Unfortunately, as the recent report of Freedom House also revealed, the justice system in Georgia is far from being free of political motivations.

It is unacceptable and simply in bad taste how Georgian Dream is trying to drag the facilitator diplomats into a bipartisan political confrontation. The diplomats, having the best interest of Georgia, did a tremendous service by mediating between the parties and brokering the March 8 agreement.

Lastly, both political sides, especially one with most power, should be reminded that reforming the electoral system and upholding the Rule of Law is a crucial stepping stone for more democratic, more European Georgia. Compromises in these two areas cannot and will not be ignored by the European Union”, - said Viola von Cramon.