The protests in Georgia reflect a broader discontent with the government's approach to EU integration and authoritarian governance.
The situation in Georgia could influence other aspiring EU member states to adopt similar strategies, prioritizing domestic control over EU compliance.
The EU's internal challenges regarding enlargement reform may hinder its ability to respond effectively to external pressures from countries like Georgia and Moldova.
If the Georgian government continues to resist EU reforms, it may face increasing isolation from the EU and potential economic sanctions.
Other candidate countries may follow Georgia's model, leading to a fragmented approach to EU integration across Eastern Europe.
The EU may need to reassess its enlargement strategy to address internal reforms and external geopolitical pressures, particularly from Russia.
Anti-government protests in Georgia have intensified following the government's decision to suspend EU accession negotiations for four years, announced by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on November 28. This move has led to widespread public outrage, with demonstrators waving EU flags and facing police repression, including water cannons and tear gas. Over 400 arrests have been reported amid increasing violence against protesters, supported by President Salome Zourabichvili and calls for EU sanctions from countries like Lithuania.
The Georgian government, led by the Georgian Dream party, appears to be prioritizing its interests over EU membership, enjoying current economic privileges such as visa-free travel and market access without the need for extensive reforms. The government is wary of the political costs associated with EU-required reforms, which could limit its authoritarian practices and provoke retaliation from Russia, a significant influence in the region.
Georgia's decision may set a precedent for other candidate countries, allowing them to enjoy EU benefits without fully committing to necessary reforms. Countries like Serbia and North Macedonia are already exhibiting similar behaviors, stalling on EU demands while maintaining a facade of compliance. Moldova faces potential setbacks as pro-Russian forces could disrupt its EU accession process.
Despite these challenges, the EU remains appealing to citizens in Eastern Europe, as demonstrated by the massive protests in Georgia and the re-election of pro-EU President Maia Sandu in Moldova. This suggests that while EU enlargement may be delayed, it is not entirely abandoned.
