Elections in Georgia: Guide between EU integration and proximity to Russia

Elections in Georgia: Guide between EU integration and proximity to Russia

On October 26, a huge political event will take place in Georgia! Over 3 million citizens are called to give up their vote in the parliamentary elections. The big question: does Georgia go to the EU or hug Russia? Should a liberal democracy arise or is democracy further weakened? A real drama!

The situation in the country is anything but easy! Prime Minister Iracli Kobakhidze and his government are increasingly showing autocratic features - tendencies that could drive the country into the arms of Russia. In contrast, President Salome Surabischwili, who clearly advocates the EU and the rule of law. According to Uwe Strohbach, South Caucasus expert at Germany Trade & Invest in Tbilisa, a clear majority of the population would like an EU and NATO accession. Parts of the opposition also support this course!

election forecasts and voice drama

Now it will be exciting! Recent surveys show two possible scenarios that could hardly be more opposite. International opinion researchers forecast an election victory for the opposition's four pro-European voting blocks with over 50 percent. The ruling party, the Georgian dream, could only win a third of the votes! The opposition is already planning to form a transitional government of experts that Georgia is supposed to lead back into the EU's arms!

not everyone is of this opinion. Government -related opinion researchers see the Georgian dream as a radiant election winner with over 60 percent approval! That may be high, but many Georgians find the opposition not selectable. In addition, many entrepreneurs hesitate to jeopardize their economic connections with Russia. Food deliveries to Russia and Russian tourism are crucial for the Georgian economy, and the Georgian dream is often considered the "minor evil".

A look into the future

The uncertainty is progressing! How will the elections go on? The questions range from government formation to the question of how the Georgian dream may want to get back to the EU's negotiating table. A solution seems urgently necessary, because a great disappointment among the young voters could threaten if the situation is not clarified.

Despite the political turmoil, the economy remains a key question. Uwe Strohbach says that the outcome of the elections will probably not have a short -term effect on economic development. Georgia benefits from a liberal business environment and a booming tourism sector. The country also plays an increasing role in international goods traffic between Asia and Europe. Both the opposition and the Georgian dream promise to promote the economy with new initiatives!

In the meantime, it remains to be seen who ultimately has the upper hand with this exciting political decision!