We, the alumni of the Leadership Academy for Development (LAD), affirm that the political, economic, and cultural future of Georgia belongs exclusively to Europe, as enshrined in Article 78 of the Constitution of Georgia.
We denounce any efforts aimed at deviating from the country’s course of Euro-Atlantic integration or impeding its realization. We categorically condemn the statement of the political party “Georgian Dream” on November 28, which removed the issue of opening negotiations with the European Union from the agenda until the end of 2028.
We condemn the systemic violence and persecution of peaceful demonstrators, and representatives of media, and opposition political parties by the so-called law enforcement and security agencies, which have escalated into widespread repression. Every day, we witness the unlawful detention of innocent, peaceful citizens and the inhumane treatment of detainees. According to official reports, over 400 individuals have been detained, with more than 300 of them being subject to physical violence. Not a single representative of the relevant state institutions has been held accountable for these acts of violence.
We stand in full solidarity with the peaceful citizens who are fighting for Georgia’s European and Euro-Atlantic future, and with the hundreds who have been detained through administrative or criminal procedures. Their courage is truly inspiring! We call upon the immediate and unconditional release of all unlawfully detained individuals and the cessation of criminal prosecutions against them.
We also express our unwavering support for our alumnus, Nikoloz Alavidze, who was arrested on December 7, along with his son, Vako Alavidze, while participating in the peaceful protests.
We call for the immediate organization of snap parliamentary elections which must be organized by the new, independent electoral administration under the scrutiny of international observers, in order to ensure Georgia’s democratic development and restoration of its course towards European integration.
The Leadership Academy for Development (LAD) is a joint initiative of the Center for Democracy, Development, and the Rule of Law at Stanford University and the Economic Policy Research Center (EPRC). Since its establishment in 2016, it has equipped senior representatives from the public, private, and civil sectors with the skills necessary for leadership, transformation, and reforms. We, the graduates of the Leadership Academy for Development, are united above all by our shared aspiration for freedom and independence. The rightful place of a free and independent Georgia is only in Europe.
Alumni of the Leadership Academy for Development
December 7, 2024
