US imposes new visa restrictions on Georgian officials over democratic backsliding

The United States has implemented a new round of visa restrictions targeting approximately 20 Georgian government officials and private individuals accused of undermining democracy in the country. 

The move reflects growing concerns over democratic backsliding in Georgia and intensifies Washington's pressure on those allegedly complicit in anti-democratic practices, Caliber.Az reports, citing US Department of State.

The visa restrictions, part of the Department's broader policy to support democratic values globally, will impact a range of individuals, including government ministers, members of parliament, law enforcement officials, and security personnel.

In a statement, the State Department condemned the "ongoing brutal and unwarranted violence" reportedly orchestrated by the ruling Georgian Dream party against protesters, journalists, human rights defenders, and opposition figures.

The statement accused Georgian Dream of steering the nation away from its Euro-Atlantic aspirations, a path favoured by the majority of Georgian citizens and enshrined in the country’s constitution.

“We are working on further actions, including sanctions, to hold accountable those who weaken democracy in Georgia. Together with the Georgian people, we aspire to see a strong, prosperous, and democratic Georgia firmly integrated into the Euro-Atlantic community,” the statement read.

The US also highlighted its ongoing commitment to imposing penalties on high-ranking officials complicit in democratic erosion, signalling that additional measures are in the pipeline.

This latest move follows earlier actions targeting over 100 individuals associated with Georgian Dream and their families, underscoring Washington’s determination to support democratic governance in Georgia.

By Aghakazim Guliyev