The United States condemns the violent, seemingly politically motivated attacks which took place yesterday in Dmanisi and Rustavi. This, along with numerous reports of pressure and intimidation against opposition candidates and their supporters throughout the country, raises serious doubts about the government’s commitment to a safe, fair pre-election environment and a democratic election process. Violence …

The U.S. Embassy’s Criminal Investigations Office provided assistance to our Georgian partners to investigate a migrant smuggling case.  Kutaisi City Court fully endorsed the evidence presented by the Prosecution and found a foreign citizen J. M. guilty of smuggling a migrant over the Georgian state border using forged documents and creating the relevant conditions for …

The U.S. Embassy extends heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the Georgians who died yesterday attempting to the cross the Enguri River, and to all of those who are suffering during the humanitarian crisis created by the COVID-19 pandemic and restricted movement across the Abkhazia administrative boundary line. We appreciate the United Nations’ …

Over the past six weeks, Georgia’s political leaders have engaged in an intense political dialogue.   While important issues remain unresolved, the parties succeeded in reaching a preliminary understanding on comprehensive electoral reforms that, once adopted, will significantly improve future Georgian elections.  We commend the party leaders from all sides for their constructive participation and achievements …

The U.S. Embassy welcomes the high voter turnout during yesterday’s parliamentary elections and applauds the people of Georgia for their dedication to democracy even amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Thousands of responsible election workers and professional observation groups around the country deserve recognition and thanks for their work supporting voters’ right to be heard through the …

The U.S. Embassy commends Parliament for adopting amendments to the Georgian Labor Code to protect workers’ rights. Holding employers to internationally recognized labor standards is essential to achieving inclusive growth, enhancing economic stability, and improving the investment climate. For the first time, Georgian workers will be guaranteed overtime pay, layoff benefits, and paternity leave. The …

Statement on the Passage of OSCE/ODIHR-Based Election Reforms (July 2) We congratulate Parliament on the passage of the electoral reform package based on OSCE/ODIHR recommendations. For over a year, political parties, civil society, and government agencies have worked constructively on drafting legislation designed to further strengthen Georgia’s electoral process. The U.S. Embassy was pleased to …

U.S. Embassy Statement Regarding Electoral Reform (June 21) U.S. Embassy Tbilisi congratulates the Members of Parliament who today approved the first reading of Constitutional amendments related to Georgia’s electoral system. It is an important first step towards greater parliamentary pluralism. We hope the amendments will be adopted with broad support, and encourage all sides to …

U.S. Embassy Statement on the death of George Floyd and protests in the United States (June 6)   U.S. Embassy Tbilisi, along with the rest of the world, is following the deeply disturbing news concerning the killing of George Floyd by police officers in Minnesota on May 25.  Mr. Floyd’s death, the peaceful protests, and …

Joint Statement by the Facilitators of the Political Dialogue (May 15)   We welcome today’s decision by the President of Georgia to use her constitutional powers in the interest of political de-polarisation and creating a political environment more conducive to a free, fair and transparent electoral process. We, as facilitators of the political dialogue, consider …

U.S. Embassy Statement Following June 20 Protests (June 26) The U.S. Embassy is following closely developments in Georgia after the June 20 protests in Tbilisi.  Although it is important that acts of violence, as well as incidents of excessive use of force against demonstrators, be investigated, we urge the Georgian authorities to proceed with balance …

U.S. Embassy Statement on Supreme Court Legislation (May 1) The United States has consistently supported Georgia in its process of judicial reforms.  While the legislation adopted by Parliament today provides for transparency and criteria for Supreme Court nominations, we are disappointed it does not fully reflect recommendations from the Venice Commission, OSCE/ODIHR, and the U.S., …

It is with great sadness that the U.S. Embassy confirms the passing of one of its employees, Mark Mitchell, in a motor vehicle accident on May 6.  Local authorities are investigating.  Mark was an invaluable member of the USAID team and his absence is deeply felt.  The U.S. Embassy community expresses its heartfelt condolences to …

U.S. Embassy Statement on the Constitutional Amendments (October 13) The Embassy believes that constitutional changes create the strongest basis for lasting reform when they enjoy broad-based consensus across parties and society. The Embassy places strong weight on the opinion of the Venice Commission, and supports its recommendations. We are disappointed that the sides involved could …