Leading Georgian politicians and academics discuss Georgia's desire to join the EU, challenges of political polarization, maintaining good relations while pursuing EU membership, concerns about occupied regions, resilience and uniqueness of Georgia, and its captivating polyphonic singing and vibrant traditional dance.
Georgia seeks EU membership and faces the challenge of fulfilling 12 recommendations to achieve candidate status.
Georgia aims to maintain good relations with neighboring countries while pursuing EU membership and closer ties with the West, but the opposition criticizes the government for adopting a pro-Russian stance.
Deep dives
Georgia's aspiration for EU membership
Georgia seeks membership in the EU and has gained support from 80% of its population. The country faces the challenge of fulfilling the EU's 12 recommendations to achieve candidate status. The government highlights its efforts towards European integration, while the opposition calls for more action on issues like media pluralism and judicial reform. The outcome of the decision will depend on factors like geopolitics and Georgia's fulfillment of the recommendations.
Balancing relations with Russia and the West
Georgia aims to strike a balance between maintaining good relations with neighboring countries, including Russia, while pursuing EU membership and closer ties with the West. However, the opposition criticizes the government for adopting a pro-Russian stance and accuses it of having political influences. The opposition emphasizes the importance of joining NATO as a way to ensure security in the face of Russian threats. The challenge lies in aligning Georgia's policies with both Russia and the Western partners.
Public response to climate tragedies
In response to climate tragedies like the Shuavi landslide, there is a growing concern among Georgian citizens about climate change and its impact. However, politicians have been slow to address these concerns, causing frustration among the public. While progress has been made in environmental protection, more needs to be done to raise awareness and take action on climate issues.
Unique characteristics of Georgia
Georgia offers a unique blend of characteristics that set it apart. It is known for its creativity, resilience, hospitality, and focus on culture and history. Additionally, Georgia's mountains, natural landscapes, polyphonic singing, and traditional dances contribute to its distinct identity. The country also prides itself on its innovative spirit and potential for technological advancements, making it an attractive destination for investment and business opportunities.
World Questions is in the Georgian capital of Tbilisi. Leading politicians and academics take questions from a public audience. Membership of the European Union, relations with neighbouring Russia and the environment are all up for discussion in a unique debate chaired by Anu Anand.
The panel:
Mariam Lashkhi: MP for the governing party, Georgian Dream Party and Deputy chair of the Foreign Affairs select committee
Tina Bokuchava: MP for the opposition party, United National Movement (UNM)
Kornely Kakachia: Professor of Political Science at Tbilisi State University
Levan Ghambashidze: Philosopher
Producer: Helen Towner
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