Last month, massive protests erupted in Tbilisi against a so-called foreign influence bill that many argued would restrict media freedom and jeopardize Georgia’s EU aspirations. The bill was withdrawn, but the divisive issues it raised will remain salient and could further complicate Georgia’s efforts at European integration.
The effects of the migration surge to the EU are being keenly felt at the union’s internal borders. For months now, “temporary” border checks have been imposed to stop people-smugglers from bringing migrants into the EU via the Balkan route. Now tensions are heating up ahead of a leaders summit next week to discuss the issue.