The European Union has approved new rules making it easier to suspend visa-free travel for countries it sees as posing security threats or violating human rights, with Georgia the likely focus.
Under the changes, the EU could target government officials rather than the general population if they deem that ‘serious human rights violations’ occur. The measure would take effect 20 days after formal adoption.
Prospective EU member state Georgia secured visa-free access in 2017, but now faces scrutiny for its perceived democratic backsliding under the ruling Georgian Dream party. Brussels has issued multiple recommendations supposedly on behalf of citizens’ rights, but Tbilisi’s response to these has been criticized. A previous report suggested that Tbilisi believes ending visa-free travel to the Union could actually boost its economy.
