As Georgians prepare to elect a new president in October, they enjoy an electoral environment shaped by the fundamentals of democracy: the first peaceful transfer of power through the ballot box; a credible political opposition; a parliament characterized by meaningful debate and decisions; an increasingly  independent judiciary;  an active civil society;  and a lively media environment. But to achieve a peaceful and credible election process, Georgian officials need to decisively tackle issues that could adversely affect the integrity of the election process.

This statement is based on the findings of an NDI international pre-election delegation, which included former New Jersey Governor Christine Todd Whitman, former Missouri Secretary of State Robin Carnahan, former European Union Ambassador to Georgia Per Eklund, Atlantic Council Executive Vice President Damon Wilson, NDI President Kenneth Wollack, NDI Regional Director for Eurasia Laura Jewett, and NDI Resident Director in Georgia Luis Navarro. 

The delegation’s purpose was  to accurately and impartially assess the electoral preparedness in advance of the Oct. 27 presidential election; review the broader political environment; examine factors that could affect the electoral process; and offer recommendations for  possible improvements.