Online round table “European perspectives, Russian Law, and a new electoral system: What to know about Georgia’s 2024 elections”

The parliamentary elections in Georgia, set for October 26, 2024, occur amid weeks of continued peaceful protests against the law “On transparency of foreign influence” pushed by the ruling Georgian Dream party and efforts to intimidate civil society and independent media. On the eve of the elections, EU representatives are questioning Georgia’s EU candidate status, and Georgian Dream leaders face U.S. sanctions.

For the first time in the country’s history, elections will be held according to the long-negotiated proportional system and the use of voting machines.

Will eliminating majority constituencies create a more balanced parliament?

Can new electoral technologies positively impact elections amid high social polarization and distrust in democratic institutions?

How could recent changes in electoral law and the stigmatization of civil society organizations and media as acting under foreign influence threaten the transparency of these crucial elections?

Details:

Time: 15.00-16.30 CET
Date: Thursday 27 June 2024
Format: Online (Zoom)
Registration Deadline: Registration is open until 27 June, 12.00 CET.

Speakers:

▸ Nino Dolidze, Executive Director, International Society for Fair Elections and Democracy (ISFED)

▸ Sandro Baramidze, Program Manager, Transparency International Georgia (TIG)

▸ Nana Tchanturia, Election Analyst, Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA)

▸ Mamuka Andguladze, Chairperson, Media Advocacy Coalition

Moderated by Stefanie Schiffer, Chair of Board, European Platform for Democratic Elections (EPDE)