30.10.2024 (Caucasian Journal). Today we are honored to welcome a very special guest: Ambassador Per EKLUND, former EU Ambassador to Georgia, and Senior Fellow at the Institute for Security and Development Policy in Stockholm.
Ambassador Eklund recently led an international observer delegation to monitor the 2024 Georgian parliamentary elections.
▶ ქართულად: The Georgian version is here.
▶ Հայերեն: The Armenian version is here.
Alexander KAFFKA, editor-in-chief of Caucasian Journal: Dear Mr. Ambassador, thank you for finding time for this interview. Unlike many international observers, your firsthand experience as a former EU ambassador, coupled with your continued engagement in regional affairs, provides you with a unique perspective on Georgia. How would you summarize your impression of the election and other recent developments?
Per EKLUND: Georgia, now an EU candidate country, did not meet the high expectations the international community had regarding the 2024 elections. Particularly concerning was the pre-election period, which failed to meet fundamental standards for democratic elections. Election observers were discredited, legislation passed was not in line with European standards, and reports of harassment and threats against voters were frequent. With the ruling party dominating the media landscape, having access to administrative resources, and controlling the administration, it was not a level playing field.