Statement of Council of Religions on Georgia’s European Perspective

16 June, 2022

We, religious associations, members of the Council of Religions of the Public Defender of Georgia, reiterate our full support for Georgia's aspirations to establish its place in the European Union. We expect a very important decision to be made by our European friends - to grant EU candidate status to Georgia.

Europe is a natural vector defining the historical, political and cultural development of Georgia. The will of the vast majority of the population of Georgia has been repeatedly expressed in connection with the goal of establishing a place in the European Union.

The multi-ethnic and multi-confessional Georgian people have worked hard on the path of achieving this goal. Our common view is that gaining the EU status will further contribute to resolving serious political and social problems in Georgia, including the problems and challenges mentioned in the European Parliament resolution.

Obtaining the candidate status will give a strong impetus to the consolidation of democracy and the rule of law, deepen civic integration, improve human rights situation, create an additional precondition for peaceful and tolerant development of our society, protection of religious freedom and equality.

The EU is a firm and reliable peace!

We once again express our gratitude to the Ukrainian people. It was as a result of their heroic struggle that it became possible to accelerate decision-making on this crucial issue that will determine the future of our country, our society.