**Georgia Accuses EU of ‘Fascism’ Over Visa Policy Changes**
Tbilisi, Georgia – The ongoing tension between Georgia and the European Union (EU) has escalated following remarks made by Georgian Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili, who accused the EU of engaging in "fascism" regarding its proposed changes to the visa-free travel policy for Georgian citizens. This statement comes in the wake of an initiative from the European Parliament that aims to limit visa-free access to specific groups of individuals within Georgia.
The EU's proposal, introduced earlier this year, is part of discussions on a potential suspension mechanism for Georgia’s visa-free regime. Under this plan, students, journalists, and civil society activists would retain the ability to enter EU countries without visas, even if the waiver is revoked for the broader population. Papuashvili criticized this approach, arguing that it creates a hierarchy among Georgian citizens based on their social categories, effectively granting preferential treatment to select groups while excluding others.
Papuashvili expressed his concerns in a media interview, stating, “These three social groups would have more rights from the EU than workers, farmers, engineers, and doctors. This is called nothing other than fascism.” He characterized the proposal as a form of segregation that undermines the unity of the Georgian populace.
The groups identified by the EU for continued visa-free access align closely with those that have been at the forefront of recent protests in Georgia. Activist organizations, opposition-linked non-governmental organizations (NGOs), student networks, and media outlets have been involved in movements that the Georgian government has accused of being influenced by Western interests aiming to destabilize the country.
In March, the European Commission took further steps by suspending visa-free travel for holders of Georgian diplomatic and service passports, citing concerns related to democracy and fundamental rights within the country. This move prompted a strong condemnation from Tbilisi, which accused the EU of using visa policies as a tool to pressure Georgia into adopting a pro-EU stance, particularly regarding sanctions against Russia.
Papuashvili stated, “They are asking us to destroy our own country by imposing sanctions against Russia, and to align ourselves with the European Union’s visa policy. If we kill and destroy ourselves, who will travel visa-free to the European Union? Let them explain that to us.” His comments reflect a broader sentiment within the Georgian leadership that views the EU's actions as detrimental to national interests.
The Georgian government has also voiced concerns over the influence of foreign organizations in domestic affairs, alleging that these entities have sought to manipulate public sentiment and overturn electoral outcomes. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has drawn parallels between the current unrest in Georgia and the 2014 Maidan protests in Ukraine, suggesting that external forces are attempting to incite a similar situation in Georgia.
In response to these allegations, the EU has refuted claims of orchestrating regime change in Georgia. Instead, EU officials have pointed to what they describe as democratic backsliding in the country and excessive use of force against protesters. The EU's stance emphasizes the need for Georgia to uphold democratic values and human rights as prerequisites for maintaining its visa-free travel status.
As tensions continue to rise, the relationship between Georgia and the EU remains strained, with both sides holding firm to their positions. The future of Georgia's visa-free regime and its implications for the country's international relations are likely to remain contentious topics in the coming months.