We are inspired by the unwavering determination of Georgian citizens who are uniting to uphold democratic principles and reaffirm their commitment to Georgia’s European future. Their courage and resilience in the face of political repression and the curtailing of fundamental freedoms are a testament to the spirit of a nation striving for progress and alignment with democratic ideals.

At EENCE, we believe education, active citizenship, and collective effort are the cornerstones of democratic governance and sustainable development. We remain committed to supporting Georgian educators, civil society actors, and local communities as they navigate these challenges and work tirelessly to preserve and advance their democratic achievements.

We urge the Georgian authorities to prioritise the people’s will, safeguard the rights to free expression and peaceful assembly, and restore meaningful cooperation with the European Union. Georgia’s future is European, and any deviation from this path undermines the nation’s sovereignty and disregards its people’s hopes and ambitions.

In solidarity, EENCE calls on the international community to strengthen its support for Georgian civil society and to amplify the voices of those advocating for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Together, we must ensure that the current setbacks do not define Georgia’s future but instead galvanise efforts to achieve its rightful place within the European family.

EENCE remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering Georgian communities and fostering inclusive dialogue. We stand with the people of Georgia in their fight for democracy, justice, and a brighter future.

Сообщение EENCE: we stand in solidarity with the people of Georgia появились сначала на Eastern European Network for Citizenship Education.

The Georgian government’s attempt to diverge from its current foreign policy direction threatens to impede Georgia’s progress towards European and Euro-Atlantic integration, potentially straining relationships with key allies such as the United States and the European Union. This approach could lead to Georgia becoming isolated and aligning itself more closely with authoritarian regimes, particularly within Russia’s sphere of influence.

The Georgian civil society, a vibrant and influential force, is actively shaping the trajectory of democracy in the nation. Their tireless efforts uplift marginalised communities and passionately advocate for the fundamental principles of human rights, making them a beacon of hope in these challenging times.

The impact of their efforts extends beyond Georgia’s borders, resonating throughout Eastern Europe. Georgia has played a pivotal role in setting the tone for democratic processes in the region. The potential loss of Georgia as a democratic stronghold would be a profound setback for all partner countries, underscoring the critical importance of safeguarding its democratic institutions.

Our thoughts and support go out to the educators in the field of citizenship education, as well as member organisations and individuals, who are standing against the oppressive Russian law that threatens the democratic principles and human rights of the Georgian people.

The Georgian civil society’s courageous efforts in protesting against this law, despite facing violence and arrests, are a testament to their unwavering commitment to democracy and freedom of expression.

It is imperative that the government listens to the voices of its citizens and repeals this detrimental law, ensuring that Georgia continues on its path towards European integration and upholds its democratic values. It is crucial for all of us to stand in solidarity with the Georgian people in their fight for justice and democracy.

Сообщение Statement of Solidarity from the Eastern European Network for Citizenship Education (EENCE) to the Georgian People появились сначала на Eastern European Network for Citizenship Education.

The Eastern European Network for Citizenship Education in the Eastern Partnership region and neighbouring countries condemns the violent solution to the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh and expresses deep condolences for the deaths of civilians in this region.

Committed to the values of democracy, peace and sustainable development and following the main international human rights instruments, we declare:

1. The resolution of any territorial conflict is possible only by peaceful means, through negotiations of all interested parties under international auspices.

2. The world community should not remain indifferent to the fate of the population of Nagorno-Karabakh. Immediate and united efforts are needed to achieve long-term and just peace and stability in the region.

3. The Government of Azerbaijan needs to ensure immediate and unhindered access to humanitarian assistance for the population, including by unblocking the Lachin corridor, following the decisions of the International Court of Justice. Also, the Government of Azerbaijan must provide, under an EU and UN mandate, a humanitarian corridor for the safe evacuation of residents of Nagorno-Karabakh, ethnic Armenians.

4. Any attempt to ethnically cleanse the region will not be tolerated. When such an event occurs, the international community needs to investigate each case and ensure due legal consequences for those who organize it, under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court.

We, representatives of organizations and experts working in the field of civic education in the Eastern Partnership region and neighbouring countries, recognizing the key role of civic education in promoting democracy, peace and sustainable development in our region, express our solidarity and support to the public organizations and experts included in our Network, opposing any type of violence in Nagorno-Karabakh, and call on all members of the Network to work together to protect human rights and prevent any violence.

Сообщение Stop human rights violations in Nagorno-Karabakh появились сначала на Eastern European Network for Citizenship Education.