EU enlargement focuses on Balkans, Ukraine, and Moldova—Georgia left unmentioned

The European Union’s enlargement process continues to move forward, but without mention of Georgia. In a speech at the European Policy Center in Brussels on March 25, European Council President Antonio Costa highlighted the EU’s commitment to integrating Ukraine, Moldova, and the Western Balkans.

Costa emphasized that enlargement remains the EU’s “best geopolitical investment,” referencing recent high-level engagements with Kyiv, Chișinău, and Western Balkan leaders. Yet, his silence on Georgia raises concerns about the country’s standing in the EU’s accession process, as other candidate nations strengthen their ties with Brussels.

Government Stance and EU Relations

The omission comes amid growing uncertainty over Georgia’s European trajectory. The ruling Georgian Dream government has delayed further integration steps until 2028, arguing that additional reforms are necessary before proceeding. However, critics point to democratic backsliding, weakened rule of law, and a confrontational stance toward Western partners as factors contributing to Georgia’s stagnation.

Relations between Tbilisi and Brussels have become increasingly strained. EU officials have expressed concerns over Georgia’s judicial reforms, media freedom, and treatment of civil society organizations. While the government insists it remains committed to EU integration, its actions have led to skepticism in Brussels about Georgia’s true political direction.

Opposition and Civil Society Alarmed

Georgia’s opposition and civil society groups view Costa’s omission as a direct consequence of the government’s policies. Pro-European political forces argue that Georgian Dream is deliberately slowing down the country’s European path, putting Georgia at risk of falling further behind other candidate nations.

Public demonstrations in support of EU integration have been ongoing, with activists urging Brussels to maintain pressure on the Georgian government. However, the EU has refrained from taking concrete measures, leaving Georgia’s European future increasingly uncertain.

What’s Next for Georgia?

Costa’s speech does not indicate an official EU policy shift but reflects a growing gap between Georgia and the countries actively engaging with Brussels. If Georgia’s government continues its current approach, the country risks being sidelined in future enlargement discussions.

With political tensions running high and questions over Georgia’s long-term European course, the coming months will be critical in determining whether the country can regain its momentum or drift further from the EU’s enlargement agenda.

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