Georgian PM rejects EU ultimatums on family values, transparency laws

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Friday firmly rejected ultimatums that pit traditional family values against European integration, calling such dilemmas unacceptable.

In his remarks, Kobakhidze criticised the framing of these issues as a binary choice.

“Of course, such ultimatums are unacceptable for us when one side presents traditional values, family values, and the interests of minors, and the other side presents European integration. We do not believe that our society should be spoken to with such dilemmas, implying that they must either abandon European integration or traditional values. This is not a correct or healthy dilemma. Therefore, the issue is inherently relevant”, the PM said.

Addressing a proposal by the public movement “Neutral Georgia” to hold a plebiscite on repealing laws concerning family values and transparency, Kobakhidze expressed openness to public consultation but refrained from taking a definitive stance.

“I don’t have a specific position on this particular issue. In general, we should consult the public on everything when decisions are made, but it would be difficult for me to comment on this specific topic today”, he said.

The PM defended the laws on family values and transparency, asserting their effectiveness in mitigating risks.

"We see serious negative trends worldwide, in every respect, including how propaganda negatively impacts statistics. We need to prevent this for our country and our society, and that was the purpose of adopting these laws. If these laws are not relevant or significant, then why are they so concerned about their adoption? In reality, these laws are effective. They successfully prevent risks, and that is precisely why those forces and individuals who promote harmful propaganda, not only in Georgia but also in various other countries, are so concerned. These laws must remain in force”, he concluded.