This was an important election for Georgia’s transition to a parliamentary system of government. Such a statement made Osman Askin Bak, the Head of the delegation from the NATO Parliamentary Assembly.

“We observed a competitive election in which fundamental freedoms were generally upheld and most procedures were followed. It was, however, far from flawless. A number of issues in the implementation created a somewhat uneven playing field and affected public confidence in parts of the process. These must be addressed.

The elections were held in a well-organized manner, which was discussed many times through an inclusive consultation process, but many issues still need to be addressed, including the polarization of the media and insufficient consideration of issues related to campaign funding.

Also pressure on voters and the lack of a dividing line between the ruling party and the state. These issues that we have identified, created an unequal environment and have affected public trust in the election process”, - said Osman Askin Bak.

The head of the delegation from the NATO Parliamentary Assembly “calls on all political parties to act responsibly in the coming days and weeks, as well as to engage constructively in the effective implementation of additional reforms”.