Ambassador recall: Tensions between Germany and Georgia are rising!

Ambassador recall: Tensions between Germany and Georgia are rising!

Tensions between Germany and Georgia are increasing, as evidenced by the federal government's decision today to recall its ambassador Peter Fischer to Berlin for consultations. The recalled ambassador is at the center of growing conflicts between the Georgian leadership and Western states, which are increasingly characterized by aggressive rhetoric from the Georgian government against the EU and Germany. In an official statement, the Foreign Office mentioned that the messy situation is a reaction to Fischer's public criticism of Georgia's authoritarian politics, which has further intensified since the election victory of the pro-Russian "Georgian Dream" party in autumn 2024. [Tagesschau] reports that the relationship between the two countries is under severe strain.

The clashes reached their peak after Fischer was recently summoned by the Georgian government and warned not to interfere in internal affairs. The ambassador speaks of a “new low” in relations, an assessment shared by the German government after the Georgian leadership accused Fischer of promoting a “radical agenda”. This absurd claim was rejected by the German Foreign Ministry as baseless. Fischer's return is seen as a preliminary step for in-depth consultation on Germany's future strategy with regard to Georgia, especially since Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul considers the serious developments to be unacceptable.

The background of the tensions

A detour into recent history shows that the political crises in Georgia did not arise overnight. The desired EU rapprochement was abruptly suspended after the parliamentary elections in October 2023, which resulted in nationwide protests in Tbilisi and other cities. Opposition figures and numerous journalists who protested against the government were arrested. The critical voices accuse the Georgian government of becoming increasingly closer to Russia and dismantling the democratic rights of its citizens. These developments are all the more alarming as the Georgian constitution enshrines EU accession as a fundamental goal. [Süddeutsche] provides further background on these dynamic developments.

However, the majority of the Georgian population is skeptical about these political changes. According to a survey from April 2023, around 90 percent of citizens support joining the EU. This discrepancy between the people and the government is clearly visible, especially after Georgia, together with Moldova, submitted an application to join the EU in the spring of 2022. Despite the Stabilization and Association Agreement, which has been in force since 2016 and was intended to support Georgia's reform policy, the government has taken a pro-Russian course that endangers long-term efforts towards EU integration. A controversial law aimed at controlling non-governmental organizations sparked massive protests and could seriously delay the accession process, experts warn.

Future outlook

The current situation could also have far-reaching consequences for Georgia's relations with the EU and its membership aspirations. Germany's foreign minister called for a formal suspension of Georgia's EU accession process, which is likely to further increase uncertainty. Experts emphasize that the Copenhagen criteria, which include stability of institutions, democracy and the rule of law, can hardly be met under current conditions. In order to ensure a positive outcome, reforms must be urgently tackled in order to save the partnership with the EU and regain citizens' trust in their own government. [Eastern Europe] provides a detailed overview of the challenges facing Georgia.

Given these developments, it remains to be seen how the situation in Georgia will develop and what measures the EU and Germany will take to respond to the government's aggressive escalations. A good hand in dealing with these sensitive topics is needed now more than ever.