Georgia’s nature faces threats from development and political repression against environmental activists, impacting EU integration hopes.
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Georgia possesses diverse natural landscapes, from forests to mountains and deserts, but this nature is threatened by human activity, particularly unsustainable construction and pollution resulting from tourism. Environmental activists have historically played an important role in influencing legislation, such as halting a major hydroelectric power plant project and securing emission restrictions. Georgia’s European integration policy previously supported environmental efforts through EU funding and alignment with EU standards. However, since the ruling party gained power in 2024, political repression has increased, leading to uncertainty for NGOs, which face dilemmas regarding registration under new foreign agent laws and subsequent funding difficulties. Environmental policies are reportedly rolling back, exemplified by development plans threatening sensitive areas like the Chorokhi River delta. Despite these challenges, environmental problems persist, including construction impacts, glacier melt, groundwater depletion, air pollution, and illegal landfills. European organizations express concern over the shrinking civic space in Georgia; while some small EU-supported projects continue, the movement is being pushed out of political arenas. The European Commission has halted Georgia’s EU accession process due to democratic backsliding but continues to support civil society with increased funding, emphasizing that future environmental benefits depend on substantial governmental reform and a return to European values.
