Walking a tightrope : Georgia's elusive quest for European integration

Georgia's polarised domestic politics and slow reforms have complicated its relationship with the EU. Autumn 2023 will be a pivotal period for the nation, as the EU will then decide about its candidacy status. While Georgia's full compliance with the EU's 12 recommendations is doubtful, extraneous geopolitical factors may influence the bloc's decision. In the wake of the war in Ukraine, Georgia's ruling party has refrained from adopting a clear anti-Russian position. Instead, Georgia's economic dependence on Russia has increased. Despite growing unpopularity, no credible alternative to the ruling Georgian Dream party has emerged as the 2024 parliamentary elections approach. Considering the country's strategic significance to the EU, it is crucial to cement Georgia's position within the European sphere beyond obtaining candidate status. This can be achieved by enhancing sectoral integration to deliver tangible benefits in the immediate and mid-term future, integrating Georgia into the EU's single market, and strengthening security cooperation.