UWC stands with the people of Georgia – calls for legitimate elections

The Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) stands with the people of Georgia and condemns the illegitimate inauguration of Georgia’s pro-Russian President Mikheil Kavelashvili. This election, which has been declared illegitimate by most democratic countries, further consolidates authoritarian rule and undermines the democratic will of the Georgian people. This disturbing development is part of a broader authoritarian shift under the Georgian Dream party, threatening Georgia’s progress towards democracy and European integration.

We welcome the U.S. government’s decision to sanction Georgia’s pro-Russian oligarch Bidzina Ivanishvili, a key figure behind the erosion of Georgian democracy and a de-facto shadow ruler of Georgia. This decisive action demonstrates the United States’ firm commitment to supporting democratic values and holding accountable those who undermine the sovereignty and freedom of the Georgian people.

The recent events in Georgia, including fraudulent elections, the suppression of civil society, and violent repression of peaceful protesters, mirror Russia’s tactics of destabilizing neighboring countries. These actions are also a part of a larger Russian strategy to subjugate nations aspiring to European values and freedoms and undermine the European Union. 

“Georgia is increasingly being controlled by the Kremlin and is on the verge of being fully absorbed into the Russian empire. The consequences are catastrophic for the security of Europe and further endanger the people of Georgia, Ukraine and other countries in the region. The international democratic community must take immediate action to support the people of Georgia,” stated UWC President Paul Grod. “Ukrainians around the world are committed to support the Georgian fight for freedom and dignity. Now is the time for the people of Georgia to reclaim their destiny!” 

The UWC calls on the global democratic community to take swift and decisive action to support Georgia’s democratic future. We urge all freedom-loving people and Ukrainian communities worldwide to amplify the voices of the Georgian people, support peaceful demonstrations, and advocate for decisive measures that protect Georgia’s sovereignty and democratic foundation.

About the Ukrainian World Congress

The Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) is an international non-profit organization representing over 25 million Ukrainians in more than 80 countries. Founded in 1967, it promotes the defense of Ukraine’s nation state, its people, and territorial integrity, while fostering Ukrainian national identity globally. Recognized by the UN Economic and Social Council, the UWC advocates for Ukraine’s Euro-integration, NATO membership, recognition of the Holodomor as genocide, and protection of human and minority rights.