Malcolm Rivera
Georgia's political landscape is dominated by three major parties that shape its governance and policy-making. The Georgian Dream party, founded in 2012 by billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili, has been a leading force since its rise to power, advocating for pro-European and pro-NATO policies while maintaining pragmatic ties with Russia. The United National Movement (UNM), established by former President Mikheil Saakashvili, remains a significant opposition party, emphasizing anti-corruption reforms and closer integration with the European Union. The European Georgia party, a breakaway faction from UNM, positions itself as a center-right alternative, focusing on democratic reforms and European aspirations. Together, these three parties play a pivotal role in Georgia's political dynamics and its ongoing struggle between pro-Western and pragmatic foreign policy orientations.
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What You'll Learn
Georgian Dream party's founding and leadership
The Georgian Dream party, officially known as Georgian Dream – Democratic Georgia, is one of the three largest political parties in Georgia, alongside the United National Movement and For Georgia. Founded in 2012, Georgian Dream emerged as a significant political force, reshaping the country's political landscape. The party was established by Bidzina Ivanishvili, a billionaire businessman and philanthropist, who sought to challenge the dominance of then-President Mikheil Saakashvili and his United National Movement. Ivanishvili's entry into politics was driven by his criticism of Saakashvili's authoritarian tendencies and his vision for a more democratic and inclusive Georgia.
The founding of Georgian Dream was a strategic response to growing public dissatisfaction with Saakashvili's government. Ivanishvili leveraged his vast financial resources and popularity to build a coalition of diverse political groups, including centrists, conservatives, and social democrats. The party's platform focused on strengthening democracy, combating corruption, improving economic conditions, and fostering closer ties with the European Union and NATO. In the 2012 parliamentary elections, Georgian Dream secured a majority, marking the first peaceful transfer of power in Georgia's post-Soviet history and ending the United National Movement's nine-year rule.
Leadership has been a defining feature of Georgian Dream's identity. Bidzina Ivanishvili served as Prime Minister of Georgia from 2012 to 2013, implementing key reforms and consolidating the party's power. Despite stepping down, Ivanishvili remained a dominant figure behind the scenes, often referred to as the party's informal leader. His influence continued to shape Georgian Dream's policies and decisions, even after he formally left politics in 2021. Following Ivanishvili's departure, Irakli Garibashvili assumed leadership of the party and the position of Prime Minister, serving from 2021 to 2024. Garibashvili's tenure focused on maintaining political stability and advancing Georgia's Euro-Atlantic integration.
Another key figure in Georgian Dream's leadership is Irakli Kobakhidze, who succeeded Garibashvili as Prime Minister in 2024. Kobakhidze, a long-time member of the party, has emphasized continuity in the party's policies while addressing domestic and international challenges. Under his leadership, Georgian Dream continues to navigate complex issues such as balancing relations with Russia, pursuing EU membership, and addressing socioeconomic inequalities. The party's leadership has consistently prioritized pragmatic governance, often adapting its strategies to maintain its political dominance.
Despite its successes, Georgian Dream has faced criticism over allegations of consolidating power, undermining judicial independence, and stifling opposition voices. The party's leadership has been accused of perpetuating a system where decision-making remains centralized around a few key figures, raising concerns about democratic backsliding. Nonetheless, Georgian Dream remains a dominant force in Georgian politics, with its founding principles and leadership continuing to shape the country's trajectory. The party's ability to adapt and maintain public support underscores its significance as one of Georgia's largest and most influential political parties.
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United National Movement's history and key figures
The United National Movement (UNM) is one of the three largest political parties in Georgia, alongside the Georgian Dream and the For Georgia parties. Founded in 2001 by Mikheil Saakashvili, the UNM played a pivotal role in Georgia's political landscape, particularly during the early 2000s. The party emerged as a reformist force, advocating for pro-Western policies, anti-corruption measures, and economic modernization. Its rise to prominence was closely tied to the Rose Revolution of 2003, a series of protests that led to the ousting of President Eduard Shevardnadze. Saakashvili, then a charismatic young leader, became the face of this movement, promising to transform Georgia into a modern, democratic state aligned with the European Union and NATO.
Under Saakashvili's leadership, the UNM dominated Georgian politics from 2004 to 2012. During this period, the party implemented significant reforms, including overhauling the police force, reducing corruption, and improving public services. Saakashvili's presidency was marked by rapid economic growth and infrastructure development, though critics accused his administration of authoritarian tendencies, including the suppression of opposition and media freedoms. The 2008 Russo-Georgian War was a defining moment for the UNM, as Georgia's conflict with Russia over the breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia highlighted the country's geopolitical challenges. Despite international support, the war resulted in territorial losses and strained relations with Russia, which persist to this day.
Following the UNM's defeat in the 2012 parliamentary elections to the Georgian Dream coalition led by Bidzina Ivanishvili, the party transitioned into the opposition. Saakashvili, who was term-limited as president, left Georgia but remained a key figure in the party. His legacy, however, became contentious, as he faced criminal charges in Georgia for abuse of power and embezzlement, which he and his supporters dismissed as politically motivated. Saakashvili's dramatic return to Georgia in 2021, followed by his arrest and imprisonment, further polarized the political landscape and reignited debates about his role in Georgian history.
Other key figures in the UNM include Vano Merabishvili, who served as Prime Minister in 2012 and was a close ally of Saakashvili, and David Bakradze, a former Speaker of Parliament and a prominent UNM leader. The party has also been led by Grigol Vashadze, who ran as the UNM's presidential candidate in 2018 and has been a vocal critic of the Georgian Dream government. Despite internal divisions and challenges, the UNM has maintained its position as a major opposition force, continuing to advocate for Georgia's integration into Western institutions and criticizing the current government's policies.
In recent years, the UNM has focused on rebuilding its base and appealing to younger voters, while also navigating the complexities of Saakashvili's continued influence from imprisonment. The party's history is deeply intertwined with Georgia's post-Soviet development, reflecting both the achievements and controversies of the Saakashvili era. As one of the three largest political parties in Georgia, the UNM remains a significant player in the country's ongoing political and social debates, representing a pro-Western, reformist vision for Georgia's future.
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European Georgia's ideology and platform
A search for the three largest political parties in Georgia reveals that they are the Georgian Dream, the United National Movement, and European Georgia. While each party has its unique ideology and platform, this response will focus on European Georgia's ideology and platform.
European Georgia is a center-right political party in Georgia that was founded in 2017 by former members of the United National Movement. The party's ideology is rooted in liberal conservatism, with a strong emphasis on European integration, free-market economics, and individual freedoms. European Georgia's platform is centered around creating a modern, prosperous, and democratic Georgia that is fully integrated into the European Union and NATO. The party believes that Georgia's future lies in close cooperation with Western countries, and it advocates for stronger ties with the European Union, the United States, and other democratic nations.
One of the key aspects of European Georgia's ideology is its commitment to the rule of law and the protection of human rights. The party believes that a strong and independent judiciary is essential for a functioning democracy, and it advocates for reforms to ensure that the judiciary is free from political interference. European Georgia also supports the protection of minority rights, freedom of speech, and freedom of assembly. The party's platform includes measures to combat corruption, strengthen the independence of media outlets, and promote transparency in government.
In terms of economic policy, European Georgia advocates for a free-market economy with a strong emphasis on entrepreneurship, innovation, and foreign investment. The party believes that a thriving private sector is essential for creating jobs, driving economic growth, and reducing poverty. European Georgia's platform includes measures to simplify the tax code, reduce bureaucracy, and improve the business climate. The party also supports investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure to ensure that all citizens have access to quality public services.
European Georgia's foreign policy platform is focused on strengthening Georgia's ties with the European Union and NATO. The party believes that membership in these organizations is essential for Georgia's security, stability, and prosperity. European Georgia advocates for a more active and engaged foreign policy, with a focus on building strategic partnerships with key allies. The party also supports the peaceful resolution of conflicts, including the ongoing tensions with Russia over the breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. By promoting European values, strengthening the economy, and pursuing a proactive foreign policy, European Georgia aims to position Georgia as a key player in the region and a valued partner of the European Union and NATO.
In addition to its core ideology and platform, European Georgia is also committed to promoting social cohesion, environmental sustainability, and cultural preservation. The party believes that a strong and vibrant civil society is essential for a healthy democracy, and it supports initiatives to empower local communities, promote volunteerism, and encourage civic engagement. European Georgia also recognizes the importance of protecting Georgia's unique cultural heritage and natural environment, and its platform includes measures to promote sustainable development, conserve natural resources, and preserve historical landmarks. Overall, European Georgia's ideology and platform offer a comprehensive vision for a modern, prosperous, and democratic Georgia that is fully integrated into the European family of nations.
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Political influence of For Georgia party
The For Georgia party, led by former Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia, has emerged as a significant political force in Georgia since its establishment in 2021. As one of the three largest political parties in the country, alongside the ruling Georgian Dream and the opposition United National Movement (UNM), For Georgia has carved out a unique position in the nation's political landscape. The party positions itself as a centrist alternative, appealing to voters disillusioned with the polarization between Georgian Dream and UNM. Its influence is particularly notable in its ability to attract moderate voters and former supporters of both major parties, leveraging Gakharia's reputation as a pragmatic leader during his tenure as Prime Minister.
For Georgia's political influence is rooted in its focus on economic stability, European integration, and depolarization of Georgian politics. The party advocates for closer ties with the European Union and NATO, aligning with the broader national aspirations of joining these organizations. By emphasizing economic reforms and anti-corruption measures, For Georgia has gained traction among urban and business-oriented voters who prioritize practical governance over ideological battles. This approach has allowed the party to present itself as a viable third option, particularly in local elections and parliamentary by-elections, where it has secured notable victories.
Despite its relatively recent formation, For Georgia has successfully disrupted the traditional two-party dominance in Georgia. The party's influence is evident in its ability to shape political discourse, particularly on issues like electoral reform and the rule of law. For instance, For Georgia has been vocal in criticizing both Georgian Dream and UNM for their roles in deepening political divisions, positioning itself as a unifying force. This strategy has resonated with voters seeking a more constructive and less confrontational political environment, further solidifying the party's influence.
However, For Georgia faces challenges in translating its influence into sustained political power. The party's success hinges on its ability to maintain its centrist appeal while also offering concrete solutions to pressing issues such as unemployment, healthcare, and regional development. Additionally, its reliance on Gakharia's leadership poses risks, as the party's long-term viability may depend on broadening its leadership base and institutionalizing its structures. Despite these challenges, For Georgia's influence continues to grow, particularly as it capitalizes on the shortcomings of the two dominant parties.
In summary, the For Georgia party has established itself as a key player in Georgian politics by offering a centrist, pragmatic alternative to the polarized landscape dominated by Georgian Dream and UNM. Its influence is marked by its focus on economic stability, European integration, and depolarization, which has attracted a diverse voter base. While challenges remain, For Georgia's ability to shape political discourse and secure electoral gains underscores its growing role in the country's political future. As Georgia navigates complex domestic and international challenges, the party's influence is likely to remain a critical factor in determining the nation's trajectory.
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Role of State for the People party
The Role of the State for the People Party (Georgian: სახელმწიფოს როლი — ხალხისთვის) is one of the prominent political parties in Georgia, often featured among the top three largest parties in the country. Founded in 2021, the party positions itself as a centrist and reformist force, focusing on the role of the state in serving the needs of its citizens. Its core ideology revolves around strengthening state institutions, ensuring social welfare, and promoting economic development while maintaining a balance between individual freedoms and collective responsibilities. The party emphasizes the importance of a proactive state that acts as a facilitator of public good rather than a bureaucratic entity.
One of the key principles of the Role of the State for the People Party is its commitment to social justice and equality. The party advocates for policies that reduce income inequality, improve access to healthcare and education, and provide robust social safety nets for vulnerable populations. It believes that the state should play a central role in ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their socioeconomic status, have equal opportunities to thrive. This includes investing in public infrastructure, supporting small and medium enterprises, and implementing progressive taxation to fund social programs.
In the realm of governance, the party stresses the need for transparency, accountability, and efficiency in state institutions. It proposes reforms to combat corruption, streamline bureaucratic processes, and enhance public participation in decision-making. The Role of the State for the People Party also supports decentralization, arguing that local governments should have greater autonomy to address regional needs and priorities. This approach aligns with its vision of a state that is both strong and responsive to the diverse needs of its people.
On the international stage, the party maintains a pro-Western orientation, advocating for Georgia’s integration into the European Union and NATO. It views these alliances as crucial for ensuring national security, economic stability, and democratic development. However, the party also emphasizes the importance of maintaining balanced relations with neighboring countries, including Russia, to foster regional stability and cooperation. This dual focus reflects its pragmatic approach to foreign policy, prioritizing Georgia’s long-term interests.
Domestically, the Role of the State for the People Party has gained traction by addressing pressing issues such as unemployment, inflation, and political polarization. It has positioned itself as an alternative to both the ruling Georgian Dream party and the opposition United National Movement, offering a middle ground that appeals to voters seeking pragmatic solutions. The party’s ability to articulate a clear vision for the state’s role in society has helped it establish a strong presence in Georgia’s political landscape, making it a significant player in shaping the country’s future.
In summary, the Role of the State for the People Party plays a vital role in Georgia’s political ecosystem by advocating for a state that is both proactive and people-centered. Its focus on social justice, governance reforms, and international integration resonates with a broad spectrum of voters. As one of the three largest political parties in Georgia, it continues to influence policy debates and offer a distinct vision for the country’s development, emphasizing the state’s responsibility to serve its citizens effectively and equitably.
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Frequently asked questions
The three largest political parties in Georgia are the Georgian Dream, the United National Movement (UNM), and the European Georgia party.
As of recent elections, the Georgian Dream party holds the majority in Georgia’s parliament.
The Georgian Dream party is center-left, focusing on social welfare, economic development, and maintaining balanced relations with both the European Union and Russia.
The United National Movement (UNM) is center-right, emphasizing pro-Western integration, including NATO and EU membership, and is more critical of Russia compared to Georgian Dream.
