The recent OSCE report on parliamentary elections in Georgia has caused resonance both in the country and abroad. Despite the critical tone of the document, the organization's representatives did not confirm the accusation of "large -scale falsifications", which is declared by the Georgian opposition. Unlike opposition statements, the report focuses on technical and administrative deficiencies in the electoral process, without revealing, however, convincing evidence of mass violations that could significantly affect the result.
The document was published on the website of the organization that observed the voting process.
It is reported that "voters were offered a choice between 18 candidates' lists, and candidates could generally freely campaign." There was also "active participation of voters, the active presence of observers from citizens and parties and the rich variety of votes."
Observers have also "recognized the legal framework as adequate for the democratic elections."
But it is noted that there were reports of intimidation of voters, as well as pressure on members of the election commissions. There were also cases of attacks at polling stations.
Observers say that the atmosphere was negatively influenced by the Georgian authorities, the law on inaging, which "stigmatized" the opposition representatives.
Also, a negative imprint imbalanced financial resources between the authorities and the opposition and the "schismatic atmosphere of the campaign".
"Although the campaign gave voters a wide choice on the eve of the parliamentary elections in Georgia, it is not enough to bring the elections in line with international democratic principles," said Eogan Murphy, who headed the mission of BDIPP observers.
The report also refers to the "deviation from democracy in Georgia." But this is not in the context of voting, but regarding the policy of the "Georgian Dream" in general.
