On December 16, the EU will discuss “additional measures” in response to the developments in Georgia at the Council of Foreign Ministers, reads the statement of the press-speaker of the European Union, Anitta Hipper.

“For nearly two weeks, the Georgian people have been standing up for their democratic and European aspirations, facing brutal, unlawful force from the police while exercising their right to freedom of expression. Arbitrary detentions of protesters and opposition leaders persist, with media representatives specifically targeted by law enforcement authorities and informal violent groups.

Over 400 individuals have been detained, and more than 300 have reportedly suffered violence and ill-treatment, many requiring urgent medical care. Disturbing reports from civil society organisations and the Public Defender of Georgia indicate severe and intentional violence, raising credible concerns of torture and inhuman treatment. Despite these reports, so far, no police officers or members of informal violent groups have been held accountable.

The EU deplores these repressive actions against protesters, media representatives and opposition leaders and calls for the immediate release of all detained individuals.

The EU demands an end to widespread intimidation, political persecution, reported torture and ill-treatment of citizens. Fundamental rights, such as the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and expression, must be respected and safeguarded in line with Georgia’s Constitution and international obligations.

All allegations of torture and ill-treatment must be credibly investigated. We encourage local and international organisations and the Public Defender to continue documenting the widespread violations of human rights in Georgia.

We urge Georgian Dream to de-escalate and put an end to this environment that comes with severe costs for the Georgian people. Violence is not the answer to the protesters’ demands for Georgia’s democratic and European future.

We recall that it was Georgian Dream’s course of action that led to the de facto halt of the EU accession process. The persistent democratic backslide and the recent repressive means used by Georgian authorities have consequences for our bilateral relations. The EU will consider additional measures at the upcoming Foreign Affairs Council on 16 December.

The EU stands in solidarity with the Georgian people and their democratic and European aspirations”, - reads the statement.