Poll Shows Georgians Blame Georgian Dream for Deteriorating EU Relations

A recent public opinion poll reveals that a majority of Georgian citizens hold the ruling Georgian Dream party responsible for the significant deterioration in the country's relations with the European Union.

The survey results highlight growing public dissatisfaction with the government's handling of European integration and suggest that citizens are increasingly aware of the consequences of recent policy decisions on Georgia's EU aspirations.

Poll Methodology and Key Findings

The comprehensive poll, conducted by independent research organizations, surveyed over 1,500 Georgian citizens across different regions and demographic groups. The results show that 62% of respondents believe the Georgian Dream government is primarily responsible for the current crisis in Georgia-EU relations.

Only 23% of those surveyed attributed the deteriorating relations to EU policies or external factors, while 15% remained undecided or declined to assign blame. The findings represent a significant shift in public perception compared to previous surveys conducted before the adoption of controversial legislation.

Regional and Demographic Breakdown

The poll revealed interesting regional variations in public opinion. Urban areas, particularly Tbilisi and other major cities, showed higher levels of criticism toward the government's EU policies, with 71% of urban respondents blaming Georgian Dream for the deteriorating relations.

Rural areas showed more divided opinions, though still a majority (54%) held the government responsible. Younger respondents (ages 18-35) were particularly critical, with 78% attributing the EU crisis to government policies and rhetoric.

Impact of Recent Legislation

The survey specifically addressed public awareness and opinions about the controversial "foreign agent" law and other recent legislative changes. Results indicate that 68% of respondents are aware of the law's negative impact on Georgia's EU integration prospects.

Among those familiar with the legislation, 74% believe it has damaged Georgia's relationship with European partners and undermined the country's democratic credentials. This awareness appears to be driving much of the criticism directed at the ruling party.

European Integration Preferences

Despite the current crisis, the poll confirmed that European integration remains a priority for most Georgians. 76% of respondents expressed support for EU membership, while only 18% opposed it, with 6% undecided.

However, confidence in the government's ability to achieve EU integration has declined significantly. Only 31% of respondents believe the current government can successfully navigate Georgia toward EU membership, down from 52% in similar polls conducted two years ago.

Government Response to Poll Results

Georgian Dream officials have dismissed the poll results as biased and influenced by what they describe as opposition propaganda. Government representatives argue that their policies are designed to protect Georgia's sovereignty while maintaining European aspirations.

However, the consistency of results across multiple polling organizations and the detailed methodology employed suggest that the findings reflect genuine shifts in public opinion rather than methodological bias.

Opposition and Civil Society Reactions

Opposition parties have seized on the poll results as validation of their criticism of government policies. They argue that the findings demonstrate public awareness of the damage caused by the ruling party's confrontational approach toward European partners.

Civil society organizations have noted that the poll results align with their observations of growing public concern about Georgia's international isolation and the potential consequences for the country's future development.

Implications for Upcoming Elections

The poll results have significant implications for Georgia's upcoming parliamentary elections. With a clear majority of citizens blaming the ruling party for EU relations problems, European integration issues are likely to play a central role in electoral campaigns.

Opposition parties are expected to emphasize their commitment to restoring Georgia's European trajectory, while Georgian Dream may need to adjust its messaging to address public concerns about the country's international standing.

International Observers' Perspective

International observers have noted that the poll results reflect broader trends observed in other countries where governments have pursued policies that conflict with public preferences for European integration. The findings suggest that Georgian citizens remain committed to European values despite government rhetoric.

European officials have expressed interest in the poll results, viewing them as evidence that the Georgian public continues to support European integration despite government policies that have strained EU-Georgia relations.