Georgia's Election Pits Pro-Western Opposition Against Ruling Party's Russian Ties

Voters face a crucial decision on whether to align with Europe or risk drifting into Moscow's sphere of influence.

The Georgian Dream party, led by billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili, is accused of steering Georgia away from its pro-European path by implementing controversial laws that mirror Russian policies.
Opposition parties have united in a rare coalition, aiming to oust the ruling party and revive Georgia's stalled bid for EU membership, which has been frozen due to democratic backsliding.
Georgian Dream has threatened to ban major opposition groups if it wins, labeling them as agents of a 'global war party' intent on dragging Georgia into conflict with Russia.
The election is marred by allegations of voter intimidation and suppression, with reports of public servants being coerced to support the ruling party.
International observers are closely monitoring the elections, which are seen as a test of Georgia's democratic integrity and its future relationship with both the West and Russia.