CCDS took part in a policy dialogue on Georgia’s potential EU candidate status and future reforms organized by the European Policy Centre (EPC) at their offices in Brussels on 23 November. The session, which centered on exploring the potential impact of Georgia’s candidate status on the country’s reform agenda, provided a platform for critical discussion around the issue.
During the discussion, Georgia's prospective candidacy status was hailed as a unique and transformative opportunity to expedite its reform agenda. The dialogue highlighted that achieving candidate status could serve as a core for comprehensive changes, compelling the government to prioritize and accelerate key reforms.
Shorena Lortkipanidze of CCDS contributed to the panel discussion, overviewing the ups and downs of Georgia’s recent history. She highlighted depolarization and political tensions as a major barrier on Georgia’s road to the candidacy status and expressed the hope that the EU recommendations on the issue could serve as a reset for Georgia's political agenda.
The discussion emphasized the need for the political parties to engage in constructive dialogue and ensure transparency and accountability. Further, the discussion underscored the significance of addressing regional security concerns and fostering enhanced cooperation with international partners.
Speakers at the event addressed various issues, such as strengthening parliament, ensuring diversity and inclusion, which added depth to the discussions on Georgia's EU accession path.