The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe has urged the Georgian authorities to reverse recently adopted anti-human rights legislation. It emphasised the need to maintain political pluralism and protect human rights, warning that any actions undermining democracy would harm local self-government.
The Congress reminded Georgia of its obligations under the Reykjavik Declaration of May 2023, stating that failure to comply could lead to accountability measures from the Council of Europe.
In a declaration following an urgent debate, Congress Vice-President Xavier Cadoret expressed concern over democratic backsliding, increased societal polarisation, and new legislation counter to Council of Europe standards.
The Congress called for adequate protection of human rights, stressing that local authorities should not be forced to violate these rights or implement anti-democratic policies. It reitarated that it remains committed to constructive dialogue with Georgian authorities and support their efforts to uphold human rights, the rule of law, and democracy.
