Institute of Central Europe/Yearbook 11 (2013)/Issue 6/Georgia between the EU and Russia. Challenges for Georgian internal transition, foreign and security policies (en translation)

Georgia between the EU and Russia. Challenges for Georgian internal transition, foreign and security policies (en translation)

Konrad Zasztowt

ORCID: Konrad Zasztowt:

Pages: 243-252

Edition: Lublin 2013

DOI: --

Abstract: After the presidential election, the ruling Georgian Dream coalition will have to continue difficult internal reforms, face a resilient critique from opposition parties and manage the complex relationship with Russia. This paper analyzes the challenges which the Georgian government will have to overcome on its way towards the Association Agreement with the EU. The investigations in this paper refer to the Georgian authorities’ statements and actions as well as their economic and social contexts. The conclusion is that Georgia’s closer rapprochement with Russia will be blocked due to the issues of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. At the same time, Georgia’s integration with the EU will be a difficult process because of internal and external impediments, including Russian pressure.

Georgia between the EU and Russia. Challenges for Georgian internal transition, foreign and security policies (en translation)