As Georgia gears up for its parliamentary elections on October 26, 2024, opposition parties are consolidating their efforts into coalitions with the objective of displacing the ruling party. These coalitions are fueled by concerns that the current government is jeopardizing the nation’s European Union integration by enacting anti-democratic laws and promoting anti-Western sentiments.

This election presents a pivotal chance for the opposition leading to the formation of four significant electoral alliances. They are framing the elections as a referendum on the critical choice between aligning with Europe or falling under Russian influence.

In light of the “Georgian Dream” government’s controversial adoption of the Transparency of Foreign Influence Law, which has faced widespread public and international backlash, the opposition has united around the imperative to protect Georgia’s European path. President Salome Zurabishvili has introduced the “Georgian Charter,” a comprehensive reform agenda aimed at accelerating EU integration, binding signatory parties to implement democratic reforms within a year of the elections.

While there is broad agreement on the reform agenda, analysts remain cautious about the opposition’s genuine commitment due to their history of fragmentation. Each coalition/Party – Unity Coalition, Coalition for Change, Coalition Strong Georgia, and For Georgia – brings distinct strengths and challenges, with varying strategies for EU alignment and democratic reforms.

Ultimately, these elections will serve as a critical litmus test for the opposition’s ability to forge a successful governing coalition and fulfill their mandate for EU integration, potentially reshaping Georgia’s political landscape and its future direction toward Europe.