A given article of the Constitution obliges the state structures to ensure Georgia’s integration into the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. However, the recent actions and rhetoric of the government do not serve to reaffirm its commitment to the progress made in this direction. Furthermore, the current processes in our country are viewed as a setback for democracy and an impediment to a European future.

Today, Georgia is facing a significant challenge comparable to the events of 1921. On June 24, our country’s future will be decided, whether we finally return to the European family or miss out on this historic opportunity. Now, as never before, society needs to be united and reaffirm the civil consensus enshrined in the Constitution – for Georgia to become a member of the European Union and the Euro-Atlantic Alliance.

We, the members of the Association of Democracy Schools Alumni, share the core democratic values that underpin the Euro-Atlantic structures and believe that EU membership is the common goal of all Georgians.

We urge the Georgian people to unite and defend our historic choice – the country’s declared Western course.

We call on the authorities to refrain from anti-Western rhetoric, avoid civil strife in the country and make an all-out effort to implement the necessary reforms.

We call on EU member states to take into account the historical and geopolitical context, as well as the security threats in the region, and to grant Georgia EU candidate status. The Georgian people have proved their dedication to this strategic choice by having fought for and shed blood for it over the years.

We believe the European perspective is the only way to escape Russian occupation and achieve progress, development, and prosperity. Thus, we reiterate our unwavering will for Georgia’s integration into the European Union.