EU Member States Reject Visa-Free Suspension for Georgia, But Polish PM Pushes Forward

Despite rising political tensions, the European Union is not moving to suspend visa-free travel for Georgian citizens, according to EU Ambassador to Georgia Pawel Herczynski. Speaking to journalists, Herczynski emphasized that most EU member states currently oppose such a measure, stating:

“For the moment, this is not the case.”

EU Aims to Avoid Penalizing Georgian Citizens

Ambassador Herczynski explained that the opposition stems from a desire not to punish ordinary Georgian citizens for political actions taken by their country’s leadership.

“The majority of member states are against it for a very simple reason: we don’t want to make ordinary people pay for the decisions, actions, and legislation that have been enacted in Georgia by the authorities.”

His comments underscore a common EU approach of distinguishing government accountability from citizens’ rights, especially when it comes to travel freedom under the Schengen visa waiver.

Poland Pushes for Suspension Despite EU Sentiment

In contrast to the broader EU stance, Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk has reiterated his support for suspending visa-free travel for Georgia. Tusk acknowledged that many Georgians share EU values but insisted that action is needed in response to the country’s political trajectory.

“Yes, this is also my intention, in the full knowledge that a third of Georgians are people who would very much like to share our values, but we know what the problem is.”

Tusk’s statement signals a tougher position from Warsaw, as Poland continues lobbying other EU nations to reconsider Georgia’s visa-free status.

EU Ambassador: Georgia Risks Losing EU Membership Momentum

Ambassador Herczynski also issued a strong warning regarding Georgia’s EU integration prospects, suggesting that the country may fall behind its peers.

“We are making rapid progress with Ukraine and Moldova, but with Georgia, the process has stalled. That is deeply regrettable — and I fear Georgia may lose its historic chance to join the European Union.”

The remarks reflect growing EU frustration with recent legislative and political developments in Georgia, which some claim are undermining democratic principles and judicial independence.

Georgian Government Reaffirms EU Commitment

Despite criticism, Georgia’s Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has repeatedly affirmed that EU accession remains a top priority for the country. In a statement made in December 2024, Kobakhidze said:

“Georgia will be the best prepared among candidate countries by 2030.”

His government continues to position itself as pro-European, even as tensions with Brussels intensify.