The European Commission called the Georgian elections decisive for democratic development.

The parliamentary elections to be held in Georgia on October 26 will be decisive for the country's advancement to the European Union and for democracy as a whole.

This was stated by the Vice President of the European Commission, Vera Jourova, during hearings in the European Parliament, where issues concerning Georgia's deviation from democratic norms and threats to political pluralism in the country were discussed, reports Ukrinform.

"The upcoming parliamentary elections will be a powerful test for Georgian democracy. The election campaign has already been overshadowed by problematic statements and actions from the ruling party, including promises to ban opposition forces, as well as restrictions on civil society and the media. Such tactics are characteristic of totalitarian regimes. If such goals are realized, it will contradict Georgia's declared goals of joining the EU, values, and principles that are fundamental for EU membership," Jourova said.

She reminded that when Georgia received candidate status for EU membership last December, the European Union expected it to become a stimulus for the reforms necessary to start membership negotiations. However, in recent months, the Georgian authorities have adopted laws that hinder the achievement of this goal.

In particular, a law on foreign influence, which restricts civil society and the media, and other legislative acts limiting the independence of important state institutions were adopted. At the same Time, the authorities spread anti-European rhetoric beneficial to Russia and its propaganda.

The Vice President of the European Commission noted that the European Union responded to this by suspending Georgia's EU accession process, reducing political contacts, and suspending funding. She emphasized that these measures could be withdrawn if the Georgian authorities demonstrate political will.

Jourova urged the Georgian authorities to repeal laws that contradict the declared goals of joining the European Union, particularly the law limiting the rights and freedoms of citizens.