Statements &
Announcements
Statement on Europe Day
9 May 2026
On Europe Day, the EU Awareness Centre celebrates the values that unite our continent: peace, democracy, solidarity, and human dignity. Today is not only a celebration of Europe’s achievements, but also a reminder that the European project remains a shared responsibility — one that requires unity, resilience, and commitment to democratic principles. As Europe faces growing geopolitical and hybrid challenges, we reaffirm our mission: promoting knowledge, critical thinking, and European values across societies aspiring to become part of the European family.
Statement of the EU Awareness Centre on the Anniversary of 9 April
9 April 2026
On this day, we solemnly commemorate two defining moments in Georgia’s modern history—moments of tragedy and renewal triumph that remain deeply intertwined in the nation’s collective memory.
We honour the victims of the April 9 tragedy in Tbilisi, when peaceful demonstrators in Tbilisi were brutally dispersed by Soviet forces. In the early hours of 9 April 1989, citizens—many of them young people—gathered to peacefully express their aspirations for freedom, dignity, and national independence. Their voices were met with violence, resulting in the loss of innocent lives and leaving a lasting scar on Georgia’s history.
Yet, from this tragedy emerged an unbreakable national resolve. Exactly two years later, on 9 April 1991, the Supreme Council of the Republic of Georgia declared the restoration of the country’s independence from the Soviet Union. This historic decision marked the fulfilment of the very aspirations for which the victims of 1989 had stood.
Together, these events symbolise both the heavy price of freedom and the enduring strength of a people determined to reclaim their sovereignty. They reflect the broader struggle against authoritarianism and the universal desire for self-determination and democratic governance.
Today, we pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives and reaffirm our deep respect for their courage. Their legacy continues to inspire Georgia’s path toward a democratic and European future.
The EU Awareness Centre reiterates its unwavering support for Georgia’s European aspirations. The values defended on 9 April—freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and human dignity—are fundamental to the European project.
As we remember, we also renew our commitment to countering disinformation, resisting authoritarian influence, and supporting societies striving to secure their place within the European democratic family.
We remember. We stand with Georgia.
On the Anniversary of the 31 March Referendum on the Restoration of Georgia’s Independence
31 March 2026
On 31 March 1991, the people of Georgia made a historic and courageous decision. Through a national referendum, an overwhelming majority voted in favour of restoring the country’s independence, based on the Act of Independence of 26 May 1918. This referendum became one of the most important democratic expressions of the Georgian people in modern history and laid the foundation for the re-establishment of Georgian statehood.
The referendum took place in a very difficult political and economic environment, during the final period of the Soviet Union. Despite pressure, uncertainty, and instability, the citizens of Georgia clearly expressed their will to live in an independent, democratic, and European state.
The results of the referendum were decisive: more than 90 percent of participating voters supported the restoration of independence. Shortly afterwards, on 9 April 1991, the Supreme Council of Georgia declared the restoration of the country’s independence, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Georgia’s modern history.
For Georgia, independence was not only about sovereignty and statehood. It was also a civilizational choice — a return to the European political, cultural, and democratic space to which Georgia historically belongs.
Today, more than three decades later, the spirit of the 31 March referendum remains highly relevant. However, Georgia currently faces a serious political challenge: the country’s leadership has increasingly deviated from the path of European and Euro-Atlantic integration, despite the clear and consistent will of the overwhelming majority of the population to join the European family. This widening gap between society's aspirations and the government's political course raises serious concerns about democratic governance, strategic direction, and the country’s long-term future. At the same time, Georgia continues to face external pressure, including the ongoing Russian occupation of Georgian territories, which makes unity around the country’s European choice even more important.
The EU Awareness Centre believes that the legacy of the 31 March referendum is not only historical but also political and moral. It represents the clear will of the Georgian people to live in a free, democratic, and European country. This choice remains unchanged.
On this anniversary, we reaffirm our respect for the decision made by the Georgian people in 1991 and express our support for Georgia’s continued democratic development, European integration, and sovereignty.
The will expressed on 31 March 1991 continues to guide Georgia’s European future.
Statement by the EU Awareness Centre on the 25th Anniversary of the Treaty of Nice
26 February 2026
On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Treaty of Nice, the EU Awareness Centre commemorates a landmark moment in the history of European integration that paved the way for the European Union’s largest enlargement and strengthened the foundations of a united, democratic, and forward-looking Europe.
The Treaty of Nice was more than an institutional reform — it was a strategic decision to overcome the divisions of the past and to open the Union to the nations of Central and Eastern Europe. It demonstrated that unity, solidarity, and shared values are the driving forces behind Europe’s peace, stability, and prosperity.
Today, as new countries aspire to join the European family, the spirit of Nice remains a powerful reminder that enlargement is not only a technical process but a historic mission to extend the area of freedom, democracy, and security across our continent.
The EU Awareness Centre reaffirms its commitment to promoting knowledge about the EU, supporting enlargement based on merit and values, and strengthening democratic resilience in all countries that see their future in Europe
Day of the Soviet Occupation of Georgia
25 February 2026
105 years ago, on February 25, 1921, the Russian Red Army invaded independent Georgia, which led to the loss of independence and the occupation of the country.
The Soviet occupation hindered Georgia’s development for decades, restricting its freedom, independence, and European choice. This date serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting state sovereignty.
Today, historical injustice persists through the gross violation of the fundamental principles of international law, as 20 per cent of Georgia’s territory remains occupied by the Russian Federation.
At the same time, Georgia now has a historic opportunity to become a member of the European Union. Accession to the European Union represents the most realistic and secure path for the country’s development. We believe that ignoring the lessons of history, missing Georgia’s European perspective, and returning the country to Russia’s orbit would be a crime against future generations.
On the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine
24 February 2026
On the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the EU Awareness Centre stands in firm and unequivocal solidarity with the Ukrainian people. For four years, Ukraine has resisted a brutal war of aggression launched by Russia, defending its sovereignty, its democratic choice, and the principles of international law.
Ukraine’s courage and resilience are not only a national struggle for survival — they are a defence of the European security order and the fundamental values of freedom and self-determination. The determination shown by Ukrainian soldiers and civilians alike commands respect and lasting support.
We strongly condemn and refuse Russia’s continuing war of aggression, its consistent breaches of international law, and its intentional terror against civilians and civilian infrastructure. Those responsible for these crimes must be held accountable.
The EU Awareness Centre reaffirms its full and unwavering support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and European future. We stand for sustained international unity and increased support to Ukraine until a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace is achieved.
One-Year Anniversary of the EU Awareness Centre
20 February 2026
Today, we proudly celebrate the first anniversary of the EU Awareness Centre, a milestone marking the hard work and commitment to strengthening democratic resilience, promoting European values, and countering disinformation across Eastern Europe. What began as the shared vision of several passionate and dedicated men and women has, in a short time, grown into a well-established think tank with credible analysis, meaningful engagement, and an expanding community of experts.
Over the past year, EUAC has produced substantial analytical work, including policy papers, in-depth analyses, commentaries, and expert articles on key geopolitical and security developments in Europe and its neighbourhood. Our publications feature numerous pieces by distinguished analysts and senior fellows that examine topics ranging from European strategic autonomy to regional political dynamics.
Through our statements, we have been vocal in responding to actual European and international topics, emphasising our commitment to transparency, human rights, and good governance.
In addition to our research and publications, EUAC has actively engaged in events, partnerships, and public dialogues — from organising meetings to promote European integration to forging strategic cooperation with like-minded platforms that broaden our reach and impact.
As we look forward to the year ahead, we remain committed to deepening our analytical work, expanding public discussion, and strengthening the foundations of democratic awareness across the region. Together, we are turning vision into action — and knowledge into resilience.
Signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation between EUAC and API Moldova
20 February 2026
We are pleased to announce that The EU Awareness Centre and The Association of Independent Press (API) of Moldova have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation This partnership marks an important step toward combating disinformation, strengthening transparency, and promoting European values.
Together, we aim to
support independent media, foster informed public dialogue, and contribute to a
resilient and democratic information space.
Day of the Georgian Flag.
14 January 2026
The EU Awareness Centre honours the Five Cross Flag as a symbol of Georgia’s long struggle for freedom, statehood, and dignity. It represents the resilience of the Georgian people and their commitment to democracy, sovereignty, and human rights. The flag also expresses Georgia's historical aspiration to be a member of the European family, united by common values and the pursuit of peace.
Meet Our New Research Fellows
11 January, 2026
We are pleased to welcome three distinguished experts to our team as Research Fellows.
Elene Gotsadze is an international development and public-sector professional with over two decades of experience in senior leadership and advisory roles across government institutions and donor-funded programmes. Her expertise spans democratic governance, European and Euro-Atlantic integration, decentralisation, strategic communications, and resilience to hybrid threats. She previously served as Director of the NATO and EU Information Centre and has played a leading role in major USAID-funded initiatives supporting governance reforms and local development. Ms Gotsadze has also contributed to EU- and NATO–related policy development within the Government of Georgia and is currently pursuing a PhD on Georgia–United States relations.
Malkhaz Saldadze is an Assistant Professor at George Mason University Korea and holds a PhD from the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution. A specialist in peace and conflict studies, his research focuses on historical narratives and conflict transformation in Georgia from social, cultural, and political perspectives. He has extensive experience working with civil society organisations and research institutions in Georgia, contributing to cross-border South Caucasus initiatives and strengthening CSO capacities in conflict management, civic engagement, gender equality, and European integration.
Ekaterine Kardava is a Doctor of Law, Jean Monnet Professor, and leading expert on European integration with nearly three decades of professional experience spanning public service, academia, and international consultancy. She is the author of more than thirty academic publications and has developed widely taught curricula on EU enlargement, legal approximation, and EU–Georgia relations. Professor Kardava has held senior positions in Georgia’s public institutions, served as Chief Legal Approximation Expert for an EU-funded programme in Moldova, and played a key role in Eastern Partnership parliamentary cooperation. She is the recipient of five Jean Monnet projects under Erasmus+ and is the founder of the Labour and European Research Institute.
We look forward to working together to advance high-quality research, informed debate, and cooperation on European integration and democratic governance.
From Vision to Voice
One Year Review
7 January 2026
Founded in February 2025, the EU Awareness Centre (EUAC) began as a small, volunteer-driven initiative guided by a simple belief: that informed analysis and honest debate are essential to strengthening democratic resilience and countering manipulation. From the outset, the Centre sought to contribute responsibly to discussions on European values, democratic governance, and the challenges facing Eastern Europe and EU-aspiring societies.
Within its first year, EUAC has developed from an idea into a functioning analytical and civic platform. While still modest in scale, the Centre has gradually established itself as a credible space for research, reflection, and dialogue.
A key achievement of this first year has been the expansion of our research community. EUAC now brings together 13 professional practitioners and academics, including former diplomats and scholars with extensive experience in foreign service and academia, who have joined the Centre as research fellows. In parallel, we established a Board of International Advisors, composed of highly respected figures whose guidance strengthens our strategic direction and credibility.
Substantively, EUAC has developed a growing knowledge hub of articles, commentaries, and analyses on democratic governance, European integration and enlargement, regional security, and policy developments in the EU and its eastern neighbourhood, with a focus on strengthening democratic resilience, countering disinformation and propaganda, and supporting informed and critical public engagement. Throughout, we have aimed to bridge analytical rigour with accessibility, ensuring that complex issues are communicated clearly and responsibly to broader audiences. Looking ahead, EUAC plans to expand its research and outreach and to launch a guest contributors’ portal, enabling external experts to share insights and analysis.
Public engagement has been an important part of our activity. EUAC fellows participated in conferences, forums, seminars, and public debates across Europe and engaged in media discussions. Through these engagements, we sought to bring informed perspectives shaped by regional experience into broader policy and societal discussions.
All activities during this first year were carried out entirely on a pro bono basis, driven by commitment and enthusiasm rather than institutional resources. To ensure sustainability and growth, and to launch dedicated projects, securing funding is our immediate priority.
Thank you for following our journey so far; with your support, the Centre aims to expand its impact and continue empowering citizens with knowledge and analysis.
David Dondua
Ambassador
Chairman of the Board
Archive
“Our values are our strength. When Europe defends them, it is at its most powerful”
