GEORGIA’S SLIDE INTO AUTHORITARIANISM
Igor Kotler
Formerly regarded as a leading democratic example among post-Soviet states, the Republic of Georgia is now veering dangerously toward authoritarian rule. In recent years, the Georgian Dream party has entrenched its authority by undermining institutional oversight, stifling dissent, curbing press freedoms, and marginalizing political opposition. Tactics such as rigged elections, selective prosecutions, and harsh suppression of civil society have fostered an atmosphere of intimidation and control. As the country drifts further from its Euro-Atlantic ambitions, the erosion of democratic norms has become increasingly apparent and alarming.
The regime possesses a broad arsenal of tactics to suppress its critics. The entire state machinery operates in service of the government’s interests and is controlled by deeply entrenched, corrupt officials. Utilizing criminal elements to intimidate and target opposition figures is a longstanding method of control.1 Individuals who speak out are frequently removed from their jobs, subjected to police harassment, or imprisoned without fair legal procedures. Any expression of dissent or unauthorized disclosure of information is viewed as a direct threat.
