A delegation from the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Parliamentary Assembly has warned that the absence of political dialogue in Georgia is a serious obstacle to stability and addressing the country’s challenges, following a several-day visit that concluded on 10 March in Tbilisi.
During the visit, the delegation met senior government officials, opposition representatives, members of civil society and the diplomatic community. The delegation also travelled to the Administrative Boundary Line and met internally displaced persons affected by the continued occupation of parts of Georgia.
The Assembly’s President, Pere Joan Pons Sampietro said:
“These days have reaffirmed my impression that Georgia has many very impressive politicians. Those both inside parliament and outside are seemingly constantly active in communicating with international partners. Unfortunately, I was shocked to discover that they are not communicating with each other…I call on all sides to engage constructively and to begin direct communication aimed at restoring dialogue. The government has a special responsibility in this.”
The delegation welcomed the broad political consensus in support of Georgia’s European integration, but stressed that future elections must comply with OSCE commitments and standards.
Luís Graça, the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s Special Representative for the South Caucasus, said political divisions were preventing the country from reaching its potential and urged leaders to work together despite disagreements.
Members of the delegation also expressed concern over attempts by some ruling party members to ban opposition parties, warning that this could deepen divisions and further isolate the country internationally.
The delegation also regretted that it was unable to meet individuals described by opposition groups as political prisoners during the visit.
These findings are expected to be discussed at the OSCE PA’s upcoming Bureau Meeting and Annual Session in The Hague.
Source: commonspace.eu with the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and OC Media
