Georgian Dream accuses EU of double standards over protests in France and Albania

Georgian Dream officials accused European authorities of a double standard in handling recent protests, saying the EU condemns violent demonstrations in France and Albania while tacitly encouraging anti-government rallies in Georgia. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze argued that European diplomats have urged Georgian protesters to act, even when some have resorted to violence, contrasting this with calls for restraint abroad.

Mayor Kakha Kaladze and Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili added that European leaders have attended Georgian protests and praised the unrest in Europe as a warning to Brussels. The party referenced the EU’s condemnation of arson and attacks on public buildings in Tirana and the clashes with police in French cities over rising living costs and school conditions. Papuashvili also reminded the EU of past Georgian unrest since 2019 that went uncondemned. The statements underline the ruling party’s long-standing claim that Europe backs attempts to topple Georgia’s government.