Georgia’s opposition disputes result of crucial vote which could decide the country’s role in Europe
NBCOCT 31 2024
Georgia: Protesters Clash with Police After Govt. Suspends EU Membership Talks
Above: Security forces use water cannons to disperse protesters during a demonstration against the government's decision to delay EU membership talks, near the Parliament building in downtown Tbilisi on Nov. 29, 2024. Image copyright: Giorgi Arjevanidze/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The EU stands with the freedom-loving people of Georgia. The election on Oct. 26 was characterized by irregularities, and Georgia's ruling party is responsible for the manipulation of the results and for the overall deterioration of democracy in the country. Re-elections in Georgia must take place with urgency and sanctions on the country's corrupt leadership must be imposed.
Narrative B
The elections were free and fair. Georgia is a sovereign and independent nation that will not allow outside involvement in its internal affairs, even from the EU. The government remains dedicated to accomplishing the aim of joining the EU while strongly opposing any European meddling in Georgian domestic politics. Furthermore, the opposition must refrain from any attempts to destabilize the country.