Could Georgia Join the EU? - TLDR News

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Georgia has aspirations to be the newest member of the EU but their neighbour, Russia, is far less keen. So in this video we'll explain why Georgia wants to join the bloc and the issues they could have turning this dream into a reality.
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1 - www.euractiv.com/section/east...
2 - en.armradio.am/2021/06/28/bel... tass.com/world/1308053
3 - www.consilium.europa.eu/en/po...
4 - ec.europa.eu/trade/policy/cou...
5 - www.consilium.europa.eu/media...
6 - aei.pitt.edu/92488/1/wp59_peri...
7 - carnegieeurope.eu/2021/04/06/...
8 - carnegieeurope.eu/2021/04/06/...
9 - www.europarl.europa.eu/RegDat...
10 - www.euractiv.com/section/east...
11 -web.archive.org/web/201712241...
12 - neweasterneurope.eu/2021/09/1...
13 - techilive.in/mikheil-saakashv...
14 - amnesty/status/14...
15 - • Georgia’s road to the ...
16 - cepa.org/georgias-fading-eu-m...
00:00 Introduction
01:19 Current Relationship with the EU
03:16 EU Membership Prospects
04:42 The Stumbling Blocks
07:30 Conclusion

[@MrSpherical]

I'm in Georgia now, 5 miles away from the Russian border. They've got EU flags up outside a police station. Interesting... :)

[@unaihmg9352]

didnt expect to see you here

[@idraote]

Even if accession is not a short-term thing, I am still in favour of a very close relationship with Georgia and I am happy to see they want it too.

[@xanderq]

Ikr they got EU flags set up almost everywhere

[@sandrokakabadze7717]

Which city?

[@theabaddon7457]

I'm rooting for Georgia, from Hungary.

[@Arthur_Traelnes]

I visited Georgia in late 2019, and was really surprised by all the EU flags I could see everywhere, even though the country is not (yet) part of the EU.

[@CM-um1ky]

That's the flag of the Council of Europe of which Georgia is a member.

[@fabulouscat3911]

@@CM-um1ky they are meant to be flown as EU flags to show that we want to join.

[@2hotflavored666]

@@freak777power Yep authoritarian banana states like Belarus and Kazakhstan kissing Russian flags and shining the boot of Russian politicians.

[@zedero8]

@@CM-um1ky But people obviously fly them in reference to the EU and not the council of Europe.

[@jasip1000]

@@benchoflemons398 Nato are pretty aggressive, just ask Yugoslavia/Serbia, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Libya.

[@krnekej2000]

I've never seen more EU flags than in Georgia. Not even in Brussels

[@Numaaaaaa1]

That's because our neighbor is Russia

[@tomaszzalewski4541]

@@Numaaaaaa1 kinda get it. How is the country rebuilding by the way? I remember things weren't great the last time I looked into the region

[@Numaaaaaa1]

@@tomaszzalewski4541 There is pessimism and nihilism that we don't have a future. Our politicians sucks and so does our economy. High inflation, week currency and Russia

[@qorrro]

@@tomaszzalewski4541 It’s rebuilding slowly but surely. The current government is pretending that the occupied regions don’t exist though, and that’s really bad :( It’s also really hard to make direct contact with the people in there, because Russia wants all the contact to be through them. Children in Abkhazia are taught fake history which makes them believe that we are their enemies and they are grown up with with instilled hate towards us. Most of the Abkhazian youth is currently in Russia due to work reasons, or more freedom, who knows… Russia is slowly russianising Abkhazia and the Abkhazian language and culture are also under threat because of that. They are slowly taking out Georgian classes at Abkhazian schools in the Gali region, where a lot of Georgians remain. Importing Georgian textbooks is banned in Abkhazia. A big part of Georgians living in Gali also only have the Georgian citizenship and refuse to replace it for the Abkhazian one. The current Georgian government closed the Enguri bridge several times during the elections, so people from the occupied regions would not be able to vote. Russia also made the officials in Abkhazia recently discourage the work of non-governmental organisations there that were trying to make peace between the Georgian and the Abkhazian youth. They said they would not let said organisations do such work in their “country.” It’s pretty complicated. XD The Georgian people are starting to focus more on Abkhazia than they used to though, so that’s good. There are lots of new FB pages being made that focus on things that are happening in there and show all sorts of images and tell history relating to the place. These kinds of things are not happening with the other occupied region, Samachablo, and that’s pretty bad. Although there is not much going there, it’s a small place with not as many people in it. If the Roki tunnel is ever damaged, they will be cut off from Russia. Samachablo is doing pretty badly on its own and relies heavily on Russia. Russia also reformed one of the Abkhazian villages called Aibgha to be a part of Krasnodar in 2020, or 2021, I don’t remember, maybe that counts as annexation of the village…

[@seneca983]

Possible counterarguments: 2) Cyprus's border dispute didn't stop it from joining the EU. Also, Ireland technically claimed ownership of a part of the UK until 1999. 3) Technically, Greece, the UK, Ireland, Sweden, Finland, Cyprus, and Malta didn't share a land border with a pre-existing EU member when they joined.

[@hatman3445]

Third argument can be overlooked easily imo. The first can be fixed or also somewhat overlooked in the future. Fifth, really depends on EU itself. The second and fourth arguments are the ones that hold back Georgia the Most I.E Russia in general. The ongoing conflicts are not just conflicts, those are conflicts with Russia which EU tries to avoid even now. I am Georgian and I hope we join both NATO and EU because I don't feel safe when Russian military bases stare at us from few kilometers away from the capital.

[@aceofsticks]

@@hatman3445 Don't forget Italy and France border dispute on Mont Blanc summit.

[@miguelpadeiro762]

Portugal also technically claims the Spanish city of Olivença/Olivenza

[@wow1371]

Difference is Sweden, Ireland, Greece etc are undeniably European. Culturally and politically. Georgia is not, even if the people like to say it is. This whole EU aspiration is a genius play by the politicians of Georgia trying to cover their immense failings by the promise of better future when they get into EU. Georgian government corruption is unbelievably high. Civil liberties constantly trampled. The church has immense power and the clif between classes is as wide as grand canyon. Poverty is rampant and only getting worse. Just visit the capital Tbilisi and you will see this. There are huge casinos covering the slums and run down buildings that are house to some of the poorest people. The biggest eastern orthodox church in the world is literally built on top of another extremely poor neighborhood with houses literally falling apart.

[@piotrb4240]

@@wow1371 Poverty is probably not so much an issue, it wasn't for Romania or Bulgaria (Bulgaria has still a long way to go, Romania not so much). Corruption? Georgia is famously successful in fighting corruption, the Transparency International corruption perception index (yes, perception) puts it directly behind Italy and Poland, and ahead of Czech Republic, Malta, Cyprus, and waaay ahead of Greece and many other EU members (Hungary, Croatia, Romania, ...). Many poor nations try to copy Georgia's success story of "how did you manage that?"...

[@Giorgi.Koberidze]

As a Georgian, I can say that for Georgians, the European Union is not merely an institution, but a cultural and civilizational point of destination. The latest poll showed that over 83% of Georgians are strongly supporting the country’s aspiration towards the EU. The flag of the EU - which is everywhere in Georgia - portrays not just an institutional affiliation and aspiration to the EU but a cultural identity too. In the Caucasus, where mere survival was and still is a miracle, Georgia did particularly well to develop and become a unofficial candidate of the EU membership. If there is only one unwavering consensus in Georgia, it is that supporting the EU membership. Georgians identify themselves as Europeans, and the terms EU and Europe are often used interchangeably. Therefore, I want to reiterate that for Georgians, the EU is not just a political or economic union, but the place where Georgia belongs.

[@haidouk872]

I am myself for more EU stabilization and reforms before further enlargement (even tho I support enlargement in the absolute). But maybe EU should create a new official status, that corresponds to a kind of "transitionnary status" toward real EU members, and doesn't give all benefits and constraints of full EU membership. This way, it could allow the beneficiary country to feel officially as part of the EU family, while still giving the time to conduct the necessary reforms to become a full member.

[@_____alyptic]

@@haidouk872 Was it France that called for proper integration of current states before any expansion? (Edit: Still watching vid & just heard it now) I see the point to that with all of the barriers to doing anything big, due to vetos, opt-outs, requirement for unanimous votes instead of super majority (They could just say it takes 3 members to object/vote against instead of one.) And possibly a core constitution law similar to what was proposed previously 🤔

[@_____alyptic]

I would've said why not both but I suppose it would be harder to get new members on board while not finished convincing the long-term ones. It seems the EU [while powerful together] has too many roadblocks to use that internationally (*to use outside of Europe against Russia, Asian Countries & the US in trade)

[@lexbor3511]

As a Georgian I can say that Georgia doesn't need any "cultural and civilizational point of destination" cause we already have our culture and our civilization. Only slave-minded or brainwashed Georgians want to be a part of EU - another corrupt, bureaucratic, anti-Christian and btw anti-European entity. No thank you. We want all our laws to come from Georgian people and not some foreign non-Georgian authority.

[@fabulouscat3911]

@@lexbor3511 then you are a part of the HEAVY minority my friend

[@QuentinWatt]

Pretty sure Greece joined the EU without actually being connected to it.

[@georgeskanderbeg3242]

What do you mean?

[@thebeneluxexplainer8455]

@@georgeskanderbeg3242 when Greece joined in the 80s, it wasn't connected to any EU member state by land. That only changes in 2007 when Bulgaria joined.

[@georgeskanderbeg3242]

@@thebeneluxexplainer8455 oh got you

[@kevhynaleks2631]

But Greece was marine neighborhood with Italy, and was few hundred km far on land. Georgia's distance much bigger, you need to cross whole Anatolia to reach that, 2000 km far from the closest EU country. Difference...

[@ggeronimo4412]

It was still closer than Georgia

[@Robot8A]

Cyprus also joined EU with an ongoing conflict with invaded areas, and so far it's been OK

[@popelgruner595]

Yeah but a rogue Turkey is way more easily to handle than an aggressive Russian autocrat.

[@Dave_Sisson]

Also (southern) Cyrprus is slightly further from EU territory than Georgia is. So that line about needing to border a EU country doesn't make any sense.

[@esanahka9284]

@@Dave_Sisson Cyprus tried to unite with Greece.

[@genovayork2468]

@@user-be1jx7ty7n Are you stupid? Georgia has Black Sea coastline. The southern Black Sea being NATO-EU friendly, there is no problem with that at all.

[@figaroo4816]

cyprus is an island....

[@Numaaaaaa1]

It's so damn frustrating living in Georgia and having no hope for the future. The obstacles mentioned in the video are true and we know it which adds to the frustration. The reason why we whana join? F***ing Russia that's why. Ukrainians and Baltic countries know what its like being under ,,Russian influence" and so do we. Russia is the worst neighbor you could have and that's why all these post-soviet countries joined and want to join EU/NATO. As a young person i already am thinking about moving to EU permanently because i feel like my country has no future and it hurts. There are Russian bases 1 hour away from the capital where i live. As much Russia wants to make u believe that USA having bases around the world is bad Russia is the same. Just few days ago Russian solders moved the border few meters again and they have been doing this since 2008. The situation is completely hopeless for us and this is why Georgia wants a chance to survive by joing EU, because honestly i think we will get annexed by Russia (again) in the next 20 years

[@tomaszzalewski4541]

Being from Poland I do get it. Tho I also know that Vlad and his fanatics will NEVER allow that. Because "how dare you oposse them" (literally their and their fans logic). Stay safe 🇵🇱🤝🇬🇪

[@sonneh86]

I know it must suck although i don't really know what it's like being threatened and kept down by a powerful force like Russia. But from what I've read about Georgian history, you've faced greater odds than just Russia. You've been beat down by Arabs, Turks, Mongols and Tamorlane and endured and recovered every time, maintaing your land and culture for millennia. Hang in there and better times will come!

[@neptune9238]

I know it must suck living in Georgia if you got Russia as a neighbor. It sucks a little bit to in the u.s, with a democratic system I feel like we’d never help out our Allie’s. (Democrats don’t like war) no political party likes war, but if you get annexed by Russia. We have to help you. 🇺🇸 🤝 🇬🇪

[@kevhynaleks2631]

EU is originally an economic unity. If you want to defend yourself from the russians, EU will never defend you. Only NATO will. But we know well how Russia threatening now Ukraine, so I don't think the NATO want to start WW3 for these countries, they have zero interests...

[@iKrivetko]

​@@vmsk6121 Is that supposed to be particularly different from being a provincial Russian citizen?

[@bucket6386]

the problem is russia russia can't cope with ukraine joining nato and eu don't think they'll cope with georgia either

[@sonneh86]

We should be patient and wait for Russia to collapse again

[@louisecorchevolle9241]

THere is also a problem with countries who joins illegal wars as Irak invasion internationally unlegal Georgia was with Ukraine give us lesson in international morality lessons against russia with Usa "Dont do what I did"

[@EatMyShortsAU]

Russia is like that bitter ex-partner, jealous that its ex partners are moving on with their lives lol so pathetic.

[@CitsVariants]

successful georgia or ukraine puts pressure on russian regime, i think russian goverment has learned from their lessons after perestroika (dominoes falling one country after another, ironically these so called "soviet member states" never wanted to be soviet union. it's what happens when you apply power against others will)

[@bachelor3846]

@@sonneh86 Or maybe Russia should be patient and wait for EU to collapse. Now it’s their turn. Right-wing parties are on the rise…

[@Aggoenix]

I have been to Georgia 3 years ago on a roadtrip. I have met a lot of young Georgians and had many dinners for multiple hours with them. I think culturally they definitely belong to Europe. They are isolated from it and a bit lonely in that region, but they strongly feel connection to Europe, for them its even a matter of identity and cultural survival to be in the EU. They share similar traditions and customs. Often the country reminded me of Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia or Montenegro. They have a very liberal government of western type, even though also very christian-traditional. They produce great wine and they have some industry too. If Serbia and Montenegro are already joining the EU, I think Georgia has a chance too. Thats my Czech view. "According to Transparency International's 2018 report, Georgia is the least corrupt nation in the Black Sea region, outperforming all of its immediate neighbors, as well as nearby European Union states.[28] With a mixed news media environment, Georgia is also the only country in its immediate neighborhood where the press is not deemed unfree.[29]" They are 7th in Ease of doing business in the world (most of EU countries are quite bourecratic somewhere between 30 and 70th place). So starting your company or doing business in Georgia is quite fast and easy. Also Georgia makes 85% of its energy from renewable hydropower, so the Green Deal is practically finished there and way ahead of Poland, Germany or Czechia :D

[@iberiangeorgian2018]

Dziky moc (sorry for spelling) i was studing in Karlov University and love Czech people too.

[@belstar1128]

They will defend Europe.

[@lukadanelia8084]

Thank you! Now we count on your support as we already applied for the candidate's status.

[@iafozzac]

As an Italian I'm ready to welcome the land wine making originated in into the EU

[@leo7325]

🙏❤️

[@aidanw9378]

I was in Georgia last month, and I was amazed by the desire the young people have to move towards the EU. It has a lot going for it. Lots of resources, a young population, a growing tourism industry, a eurocentric outlook (EU flags are everywhere), and a very European culture. I don't know if it'll happen soon, but I can't see it being put off completely. It's an amazing country with wonderful people, so I truly hope it can continue to grow stronger as the years go on.

[@luke_cohen1]

Georgia is also probably one of few nations whose love of food and giant portions could match North America. I'm genuinely surprised that the Khachapuri hasn't become a popular dish in the states yet.

[@aidanw9378]

@@luke_cohen1 oh dude now I'm craving khachapuri. What have you done......

[@MrJlin1982]

Are they, they oppress there Armenian minority!

[@aidanw9378]

@@MrJlin1982 I met plenty of Armenians there who didn't seem to think so. Sorry you're on your own, pal.

[@jirislavicek9954]

@@aidanw9378 Nonsense. Georgia is the only country that keep normal relations with Armenia. Not like their other neighbours. Not Iran, definitely not Turkey and most def not Azerbaijan.

[@JaBa23BatEverythingForYou]

Hey people, I am from Georgia, and I also live in an EU country. Before you think about how to stabilize your already stabilized countries, and before you are enjoying peace and freedom, you can't imagine under what threat people are living in Georgia and Ukraine. It's easy for you to sit in your warm house, have stable economics (when you think you don't) faraway from any kind of enemy except terrorism, which happens once in a while (sorry for that, and I was very depressed seeing that) when Georgia had already five actual wars from 1991 and most of them because of Russia, and, now you and your county is far away from Russia, and it's easy for you to talk and agree or disagree what to do with leftover country on the edge of Europe... And before you are deciding - remember WW2, Czechoslovakia, Poland, and others countries, and remember 1921. In the 1921 year, the Democratic Republic of Georgia was asking, begging for recognition and support from the League of Nations against Soviet Russia, and, instead, we get nothing but genocide and total devastation from Russians for more than 70 years which continues today also. Now, you are looking at Georgians, and you are surprised why these people want in EU and NATO, why they have flags of organizations where they are not part. But, c'mon, we have so painful history that only hope people can see it's far away from surrounding and neighborhood, it's behind the Black Sea at least 2,000 km away :) P.S. Georgians in the EU, and NATO see physical security and stability, and economical needs are way less attractive than that and to understand that just imagine neighbors wanting to invade you constantly and all the time, you will wish to eat or survive physically??

[@TemoMachitidze]

Sharing a land border with the EU isn't really a criteria and it shouldn't be mentioned here as disadvantage at all. Neither Greece nor Sweden or Finland shared any land borders with the EU when they joined.

[@Risicoco]

The distance between sweden and denmark is 4 km. That's almost a land border.

[@mladenmatosevic4591]

So, let Georgia first implement Nordic system of government transparency, fighting corruption and human rights and when you complete it, we will see.

[@sababugs1125]

@@mladenmatosevic4591 Greece is more corrupt than Georgia but still joined without a border

[@wow1371]

Fundamentally European nations with clearly transparent governments. Even greece with its huge corruption issues is still miles ahead of Georgian system

[@wow1371]

@@sababugs1125 not even, while Greece has had widespread issues with corruption they have great civil liberty laws and transparency laws in place. That is something that Georgian system does not have

[@haidouk872]

As much as I am strong supporter of EU and EU enlargement, and as much as I have affection for Georgians and their struggles, I think that EU must first focus on internal reforms and consensus on what direction the current 27 members want to take altogether. Look how much damage to the internal EU coherence just one dissident government can create, for example Hungarian government. If we keep expanding now without going through some important internal reforms in the way EU itself works, we'll end up reaching a state where we'll be constantly paralized. And as the rest of the world develop and new powers emerge, EU will be stuck in place. And I am really sorry if it means that Albania, Macedonia and Georgia have to wait for now. Believe me, I would love to call them all my EU brothers and sisters. But I am sure they'd rather join a strong stable EU who can truly lift them up than one plagued with internal weaknesses where they'll become the scapegoats of all economical problems. We can no longer afford to be just a vague trade alliance without any concrete common goal. We need to know all where we're going. Whether you are a supporter of more unity like me or a strong defender of national sovereignty, we need to know what is the ultimate aim of the 21st century EU project.

[@blablak9942]

Well said. Couldn’t be said better!

[@e1123581321345589144]

Unified, Europe could be a global superpower that surpasses even the United States, individually we're all second or third tier nations. This should give us enough reason to strive for a more cohesive EU.

[@catalyst772]

Restore the Roman Empire under the Flag of the EU! With Federal State rights like in the US

[@athynasaram]

I completely agree however this opens up a problem. If the EU does not open a path toward closer ties ie. gradual membership it will lose the chance to extend it's influence on them. Other world powers will use that moments to intervene. You already have examples in Balkans where come countries unhappy with the EU are turning towards Russia and China. I am afraid that if the EU is not willing to have closer ties with these East European countries, they will turn to those who are.

[@alli274]

Personally I rather see EU predominantly focusing on trade and free movement and letting countries have more sovereignty in their decision making. So then it might help having more nations like Georgia join. To me coming from one of the smaller nations currently in the EU it's a bit concerning with what may happen to us and how we more or less just have to accept whatever EU decides. With more nations in EU then they can't have as much decision making and micromanaging of nations which would give more autonomy. But there's no perfect solution of course and I agree that we can't have some wanting us to become states like in the US and others just wanting a part of the trade and nothing else with EU.

[@datonacvaladze4088]

I am Georgian and I am European. It is the will of the people. A. The will of the political people.

[@jasonhappy9162]

I’ve spent a lot of time in Georgia and it’s a lovely country 🇬🇧🇬🇪

[@mariusdufour9186]

The border issue and partial Russian occupation will likely block Georgia's accession to the EU and NATO, until they are resolved. This is probably the main reason why Russia invaded in 2008, Georgia was getting too close to NATO and the EU for Putin's liking. It is true that Georgia has close ties with the EU, both cultural and economical, so on that basis there isn't that much of an issue, and cooperation on trade and defence is sure to continue and even increase. Turkey is in worse position, even discounting Erdogan's recent antics, the biggest stumbling block for Turkish EU accession was, and still is, it's active territorial dispute with EU member state Cyprus.

[@vjp9704]

The Cyprus dispute is a strong obstacle but Turkey will never join. If it became a member it would be the most populous member and would have the most seats in the EU parliament. Do you think that Europeans would like a Muslim majority from a conservative nation, being the majority?

[@thestatistician6076]

@@vjp9704 exactly, everyone mentions cyprus as a reason but the muslim majority thing is the main problem for them, same goes for why bosnia, kosovo and albania are blocked from joining in. Georgia, because of geography will be blocked to prevent a conflict with russia.

[@vjp9704]

@@thestatistician6076 Kosovo is a whole other thing. Albania is not blocked. Albania has a population of 2.5-3 million and most of Muslims there do not practice religion. Albania will propably get the same amount of seats as Lithuania, because they have equal populations. Albania is paired with North Macedonia and North Macedonia is being blocked by Bulgaria. Half of the EU supports Albania to move on its own but Germany and France don't. So the only reason why Albania is waiting is because North Macedonia is a problematic state and most of the Balkans are nationalistic.

[@mariusdufour9186]

@@vjp9704 Today it would be unthinkable, but if you go back a decade or two, Turkey's secular tradition was alive and well and Turkey's political establishment mostly wasn't pushing for political islam. The conservative Muslim majority isn't that large and is balanced by a large secular westernised minority (Though more influential members of that minority have been purged following the 2016 debacle amongst other minority leaders etc.). If you look over the past centuries, Turkey goes back and forth between westernisation (i.e. close alignment with Europe) and islamisation/arabisation. Now, they're backsliding towards more conservative Islam and the Middle East. A sort of Neo-Ottoman Empire, without the Empire, if you will. There was a time not so long ago when Turkey was much more western, at least on the surface, when the secularists were running things. Joining the EU at that time might have anchored this pendulum to the side of secular politics and relative liberalisation. (Though this is rather optimistic, it is what quite a few people were thinking at the time.) Also, Ataturk must be rolling in his grave right now.

[@vjp9704]

@@mariusdufour9186 It's honestly sad seeing Turkey being destroyed but that maniac. Growing up in Greece. Most people had no problem with Turkey. I never heard any racist comments. As I learned history and watched the news, I saw why Greeks have started being a bit hostile against Turkey again. All the work that Ataturk did, all the progression... Damn, I only hope that people in Turkey do not suffer.

[@FairyCRat]

5:41 "the EU is unlikely to extend membership to a country with open territorial conflicts" then why did we let in Cyprus?

[@TonyDootjes]

You know what unlikely means? It means improbable but not impossible.

[@atruv2089]

Because a. Greece threatened to veto any future enlargement candidate if Cyprus wasn't allowed a chance b. It was assumed that both sides would vote "Yes" to the Annan Plan, and that Cyprus would join united. When b. didn't happen, it left the EU in a tough position because of a., so it allowed Cyprus to join divided, even though that was never the plan.

[@ComradeHellas]

@@atruv2089 we did good

[@tomaszzalewski4541]

@@ComradeHellas how exactly? I mean, it's cool to support your friends but that didn't work. Additionaly what's your opinion on Cyprus? (if you don't mind me asking)

[@ComradeHellas]

@@tomaszzalewski4541 We played our cards right that's how it works, we asked for a Cypriot membership, Cypriots received a membership, case won.

[@hendrik1769]

The issue of territorial conflicts didn't stop Cyprus

[@TheGentry000]

Or Croatia who has 2 border disputes with Slovenia and Serbia. EU breaking there own rules is becoming a habit.

[@adrienrenaux6211]

I am a huge proponent of the EU, but I agree that it shouldn't focus on expansion for now. It should focus on good diplomatic relations with its periphery, but mostly on sorting itself out. There is just too much bureaucracy and paralysis in the EU. We honestly have to deal with these issues, because they will cause the end of the EU if not resolved. I truly believe that Europe can have a positive leadership role in the world, but the way it works at the moment makes it impossible

[@NoName-hg6cc]

It has to become a Federation before extending out further

[@sugiii9616]

@@NoName-hg6cc YES, but all cultures of Europe are rich and so a lot of ppl are (pretty legitimly) nationalist and conservator about their nation, their borders, etc. Im ready to say that I live ik Belgium, Province of U.N.E. United Nations of Europe

[@carlossaraiva8213]

Too much paralisis in the EU? Compared to what? Try living in the UK to kbow what real paralisis is like.

[@j.obrien4990]

@Lara Croft off your meds?

[@_____alyptic]

Definitely agree on the internal paralysis point, it takes so much double-checking on unanimous support to get something that's watered down. The proposed EU Constitution Rules & Super-majority vote would have been good for that but it didn't get unanimous votes (ironically)

[@cocoamoccha971]

Sending love and respect to the people of Sakartvelo all the way from the Baltics. I think you need to work on attracting more tourists from the EU so that people have an idea of what an awesome country you are with such generous, talented, highly educated people and breath-taking culture. I'm sure Georgia would have no problem joining once further expansion is on the table.

[@beqakazarashvili4177]

As a georgian, i want to thank you for making video for thia topic, but one thing i want point out is term you used "south ossethia". this region doesn't exist in georgia it's called: "tskivnali region", or "samachablo". This term was firstly used by russia to justify their occupation. ossethia is in the north caucasus, not in georgia. 💞

[@beqakazarashvili4177]

Also, hope you won't be mind for my grammal mistakes. 😁

[@fabulouscat3911]

Yeah our government recently even asked the EU to stop using that term

[@chozer1]

Can we just call Russia north Georgia?

[@qorrro]

@@chozer1 ???

[@chozer1]

@@nicolae1126 true. eastern ukraine is always acting up just like west taiwan

[@gerihuginn2143]

You made a mistake when talking about having a being close to another memeber . Greece had no physical border with any member at that time , only a maritime one with Italy. Cyprus has no physical border with anyone and is at a longer distance than is Georgia from Romania . Romania and Bulgaria have a maritime border with Georgia on the Black Sea.

[@debe__]

Also, they wrote Icanishvili instead of Ivanishvili at 5:05

[@ComradeHellas]

@UCnBXt5O2lo6DOTW1TJTgzZA Greece has islands closer to Cyprus than Crete, namely Rhodes is a big island closer to Cyprus than Crete or Kastelorizo a small island off the southern coast of Turkey (270km).

[@solosunbeam]

I'm Scottish living in Italy and I'd love to see Georgia join when the time is right. ❤️🇬🇪🇪🇺

[@jamesbollocks8479]

Which is right now!

[@filiushermesio]

You forgot to mention "associated Trio". In 2021 Summer, in Georgia, 3 associated countries (Georgia, Ukraine, Moldova) and the EU signed the new agreement that`s making the aforementioned 3 states closer to the EU in the integration process. Furthermore, it would be great to discuss the integration processes of Georgia in the EU. For example: 1) Georgia is one of the most successful at implementing reforms. 2) With the Global Corruption Index 2021, Georgia ranks 41st, following 50th place last year, among 196 countries, and ahead of 9 EU and NATO member states. 3) Georgia is ranked 7 among 190 economies in the ease of doing business, according to the latest World Bank annual ratings. 4) Georgia ranked 4th in the world in terms of safety behind only Qatar, Taiwan, and the UAE. (4th safest country worldwide, safest in Europe). 5) With "The Good Country Index" Georgia ranks 1st in terms of global contribution of international peace and security (which includes the following criteria: 1)Peacekeeping troops; 2)Dues in arrears to UN peacekeeping budgets as % of the contribution; 3)International violent conflict ; 4)Arms exports; 5)Internet security.) 6) With the Index (The Good Country Index) Georgia ranks 1st in terms of the global contribution of prosperity and equality. (which includes the following criteria: 1)Open trading; 2)UN volunteers abroad; 3) Remittance cost; 4)FDI outflows; 5)Development assistance.) 7) Based on the 2022 survey, done by the National Democratic Institute (NDI) shows that 83% of Georgians approve of joining the EU. 8) Georgia produces over 85% of its energy from renewable resources (mainly from hydropower plants), so the Green Deal is practically finished there and way ahead of almost all of EU states, except France, Sweden, and Finland.

[@martinhawes5647]

Would Georgia’s hydroplantd be able to expand to meet future increase in electricity consumption which would be likely after joining the EU. Of course even without my hydro capacity, Georgia could use, wind, solar and nuclear to maintain a high renewable mix.

[@filiushermesio]

@@martinhawes5647 Yes, Georgia is rich in water resources, and only a little part is used, for now, so It's possible to expand hydropower plants. We also produce electricity from wind turbines and we are going to add more turbines. We also have a factory of solar panels and we export those solar panels to the EU (the solar power station is going to be built soon). Plus we are starting to build Green Hydrogen plants so we will produce green hydrogen fossils for Georgia and the EU (we already agreed with Germany).

[@hoohag5371]

Theres a reson ukraine and moldova were granted candudate status but not georgia. More reforms need to be made. And chances for any of the caucasus countries joining EU before turkey are extremely low

[@ohsoyoureawrestlernow9756]

@@hoohag5371 Also both Moldova and Ukraine are European countries located on the European continent, while Georgia isn't. That's the elephant in the room that everyone ignores

[@samimamedov]

Georgia and europes safeat country? Wow

[@runningfromabear8354]

I was in Georgia working in a partnership between universities. I found it fascinating how the older generation spoke Georgian and Russian and seemed to miss the Soviet Era (even with all of the atrocities committed in Georgia during that period). And the younger generation spoke Georgian and English and seem to be in such a rush to be included in Europe. They're very much an in-between people. Not entirely European but also at odds with Central Asia and Russia. They're by far, more European than Turkey. They actually reminded me of the people I met in Cyprus.

[@alvegutt42]

well, i would say turkish cities are more european. but georgia as a whole is more. not sure which old people you asked, but ive found that most people up to about 50 and 60 want eu membership. the stat wouldnt be 83% if it was only young people

[@sigmundfreud2049]

Georgins are look like Europeans but in Georgia everyone not Georgian like Armenians and Azeris and Georgians aren't racist that's why they mixed a lot with Eastern groups

[@Azmodan3000]

The older population misses the times when they were young, not comunism, there is a study on this made.

[@bikkiikun]

The location is not really a core issue, Greece was isolated for a long time, until the last round of ascessions. And Cyprus is an island, far into the mediterranean. The biggest stumbling block is probably Russian occupation of large swathes of the country. Although (again) Cyprus is an example for this not being a knock-out-criteria. Like Georgia, Cyprus is the victim, not the occupier. Georgia being small really works in its favour (not being too hard/expensive to "digest"). And the biggest advantage is the willingness of both overwhelming majority of people as well as political parties across the spectrum supporting this move. In the end it's all about what the EU can gain, in terms of influence on politics and trade and what political baggage (including unwanted influence from other powers) this will carry.

[@psammiad]

Also Australia is in Eurovision so... ;)

[@ComradeHellas]

What are you talking about, Greece is 78km away from Southern Italy. Cyprus is 263km away from the Greek islands. Georgia at its closest point is over 850km away from Romania a country in the European periphery. I often drive 78 or 263km differences but how often have you driven 850km distances?

[@tim3440]

Greece and Georgia are different countries mate...

[@tim3440]

@@psammiad If you have enough gays in your country you can join the Eurovision song contest..

[@mix3k818]

Lech Kaczyński may have been right in trying to make Poland more diplomatically open to Georgia

[@alphabetaomega265]

The problem is, that people like Lech Kacynski (and Orban) are the type of people, that are the reason why the EU doesn’t want to expand at the moment. Their actions are the main reason, why people say the EU must increase it’s ability to fight democratic backsliding, obstructionism and corruption, before expanding. Edit: I meant Jaroslaw Kacynski. Thanks to Igor Kurpis for pointing it out.

[@bLd321]

@@alphabetaomega265 I think you mistaken Lech Kaczyński (former president of Poland who died in 2010) with his twin brother, Jarosław Kaczyński, who is the head of Prawo i Sprawiedliwość party, currently ruling in Poland.

[@alphabetaomega265]

@@bLd321 My bad. I corrected it. Thanks

[@georgiannationalist1719]

Bruh bro believe me Lech was great guy 🇬🇪🇵🇱

[@phil2544]

Next the UK will want to join 😧

[@phil2544]

@Renard Roux Rebelle Not until the UK realises how much they've been shafted.

[@isopropylalcohol369]

Ive been waiting for this episode.. for SO LONG.

[@JackCooper243]

Here after Georgia and Moldova announced they applied for membership

[@360H3ADSHOT]

Let Georgia in! They are our fellow European brothers. The turkeys are an undeveloped dictatorship, they shall not be let in.

[@orar6435]

you are saying as if turkey was always like that. eu and usa shape turkey in that way. usa selected him. you know west always support islamic groups against nationalists and left wing. luckly in 2023 he will be gone.

[@akcarbine949]

I have family from, and living in Tbilisi - the worries concerning Russia are no joke, and I wish them the absolute best in their application. We need to stand in solidarity for countries like Georgia and Ukraine.

[@dirtyharry6297]

Georgia and Ukraine should both join EU and NATO 🇨🇮 asap

[@andreasarnoalthofsobottka2928]

The biggest obstacle I see is that the country in the Caucasus will constantly be confused with the state in the US.

[@Thats_quite_cool]

especially if the EU would become a federation of states. Then the title "the Union's south-eastern state of Georgia" would apply to both

[@cormacdonnelly365]

And if Georgia triggered article 50 at any point, we'd then have to deal with "Georgia seceding from the Union" in two different chapters of the history book

[@EliasRoy]

Who cares? The country is more important than a state!

[@la1sk203]

If Georgia wishes to join and meets the criteria required to do so, then I do not see any problem with them becoming a member. Culturally they are probably close enough not to create too much tension in overall EU values. Lastly their food and alcohol are godlike and I would gladly welcome them any time of day.

[@aretinocharalambos4989]

Would you be willing to go to war against Russia on their behalf then?

[@clasqm]

@@aretinocharalambos4989 That's a NATO issue, not an EU issue.

[@aretinocharalambos4989]

@@clasqm it is an eu issue. Russia is not concerned just by NATO's expansion. Also EU expansion closer to it's borders, because Russia wants its relationships with its former Soviet countries to be exclusive.

[@GiulioImparato]

We should start calling Russia Neo-USSR since i don't see a different in actions and intents between them.

[@tim3440]

As a dutch person I wouldnt really want Georgia to join. We have enough corrupt countries in the union, plus we have enough burdens in the union...

[@nickmacarius3012]

I'd have to say that Georgia would be accepted into the EU long before Turkey. For the Europeans, Europe stops at Constantinople. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@patrickmccutcheon9361]

The fall of Constantinople was as big a tragedy for Europe as the failure of Britain and Germany going to war in 1914.

[@sababugs1125]

So what about the Baltics and Ukraine and finland they're east of Istanbul

[@metamind411]

@@sababugs1125 European Asian border isn't a straight line, it stops at Istanbul but it expands east in the north up to the Ural mountains in Russia.

[@aren624]

We will never apply to the EU again. Britain left the EU as smart as ever. Let's call the EU a big debt union.

[@michelangelomsu]

F**ckk Its İstanbul

[@alvegutt42]

i live in georgia as a foreigner. most identify as part of european culture and therefore wants to make closer connection with them politically. especially since the country is between all these larger powers, i think people just want to align more with the best option

[@valipunctro]

Im of the opinion that any country that complies with EU guidelines and is willing should be let in.

[@Dave_Sisson]

So countries that participate in Eurovision and have a mostly European population should be able to join? Australia will be pleased !

[@angriffslusticherWildoger]

I think Putin has another opinion

[@francogiobbimontesanti3826]

I mean they must be part of the European culture at least. Or you would be fine with Bangladesh joining the EU.

[@drsnova7313]

@@francogiobbimontesanti3826 Well, what is "European culture"? Christianity? Driving on the right? A shared love of mystery meat sausage? Is it "not being so brown"? I mean, do you feel that Finland and Spain have such an abundance of culture in common - at least in things that matter in daily life? The thing that's important to join the EU should always just be to meet the existing criteria for it, no matter how you otherwise act, or how you believe - but I doubt Bangladesh meets all of them - see their human rights abuse issues. Especially the one about having to be an "European state", obviously,

[@luisantos1996]

Russia will fight to teeth for that to not happen, and eventually an possibility to join NATO, the same story with Ukraine, it's very complicated. Is far more likely to turkey to join EU, in 1st place.

[@AlexLernt]

Can‘t wait for Georgia to join! Great country, awesome people.

[@Aloyz3n]

so unlikely but I would like Georgia to join, we should appreciate like-minded people even if separated by the sea

[@goncaloalves2991]

The border issue isn't a factor, since Greece, for decades, had no border connection with another member state. Abkhazia and South Ossetia are in a similar situation to Northern Cyprus. The other 3 points are valid.

[@hoohag5371]

Cant compare north cyprus situation to abhazia and south ossetia. Cypriots can travel between north and south. But if georgian gets anywhere near abkhazia/south ossetia, he will be shot dead

[@goncaloalves2991]

@@hoohag5371 and that is relevant for this issue, because?

[@antons5302]

The EU should've been more serious about enlargement back in 2000s: Georgia and Ukraine becoming candidates and giving *real* visible prospects to Turkey would've strengthened democracies in all of those countries, accelerated reforms, and made for a stronger, more robust and more attractive block. The UK was a big proponent of Turkey and Ukraine joining, so they probably would've stayed in fold. Many missed opportunities, too many indecisive actions, of which, I'm sure, Western European leadership is still very proud

[@haidouk872]

Unfortunately, EU direction has made a lot of mistakes in the past decades, so it's the duty of current generations of politics to fix them and break EU out of the disappointment loop.

[@wabdinur]

@@tim3440 When the Turks realized that (EU is a Christian only club) and they look to the east...Europe complains that Erdogan wants to revive the Ottoman past.

[@tim3440]

@@wabdinur Mwah, I think you cant argue that Erdogan is a dictator and a failing one if you look at the economy. But good that Turkey realises it. Nobody in Europe wants them to join. At least I know I was against when Erdogan called my nation descendants of Nazi's.

[@wabdinur]

@@tim3440 That failed coup attempt in 2016 probably made Erdogan more hardline. Also, Erdogan is a politician...there's a method to his madness. During that spate with the Netherlands (along with other European countries), Erdogan was seeking to win a referendum which expanded his powers (so he wanted the votes of the Turkish diaspora in Europe). You know, Erdogan's eccentric behavior might not bode well for his neighbors but him abruptly deciding to open an embassy in my war-torn motherland (Somalia) actually attracted more foreign presence in that country. The UK and the US rushed in in order to compete with Turkish interests in that part of the world. I hope he's not an autocratic and time will tell. I hear his polling is waning and he's looking for ways to become popular again. I wish the Turks all the best. You're right about the EU...you guys have enough problems as it is.

[@Silver_Prussian]

,,Strong democracies" so yeah even more uneffective, politicly correc tand corrupt

[@outsiderkk]

"EU is unlikely to offer membership to a country with open territorial conflicts." Cyprus: Hold my beer.

[@swetoniuszkorda5737]

*commandaria

[@jasperteunissen7851]

It seems like a great opportunity for both the EU and Georgia. The Eu could gain more control and power in the east (just to mess with Russia), while Georgia could further develop into an prospering nation using the enormous EU trade system.

[@edyslavico3761]

Russia is the main problem. But if Georgia is clever about it they might make it. After all Russia already borders the Baltics which are already part of EU. The biggest issue is the artificial territorial dispute put in place by Russia in 2008. But it's not insormontable.

[@fusssel7178]

maybe Russia steps down with a compromise: Georgia joins the EU but is not allowed to join NATO (at no point in the future). One of the two independance movements gets granted, the other not. So both win and both lose, a typical compromise.

[@sababugs1125]

@@fusssel7178 wouldn't work since Russia needs respect among separatists and giving up a region would effectively defang it

[@xSandamx]

I would say just ignore territorial disputes. Its a fabricated card in Putin's hand and its only purpose is to stop Georgia from joining EU and NATO. It will become useless card if Georgia gets in EU and NATO despite it.

[@kaisermarxistdixie6842]

Why is Russia the issue they are trying to protect ethnic minorities from Georgian supremacists. Russia is more concern with Georgia joining NATO than the EU.

[@kaisermarxistdixie6842]

@@sababugs1125 they wouldn't that could be on the negotiation table give up separatist territories for Georgia's entry into Eu.

[@dariusgunter5344]

I hope they will join eventually, but with the Russian occupation it seems unlikely, additionally I think we should first move on with federalisation, we don't need new members who aren't on board with that. After we federalised we still can let new states join a European federation.

[@esanahka9284]

@UCyk0dy4wo9uMVbuh1DmAwoA You do realize that France is literally one of the biggest supporters of federalization like EU army?

[@leloupdesparte7642]

If you want to federalised, you can but it will be without us, this is not the project for Europe the french wants. We want a Europe of Nations, not a federation and I can tell you this is the main opinion in France

[@h..8083]

Thought I’d mention financial incentives of creating fake news: - Cheaper - More sensational - Can be used to push political agendas All content put out by the corporate media is fake propaganda. It would make no sense for them to report real stuff from a financial perspective.

[@stypie3711]

eu wont federalise till france and germany are siding with russia

[@ellied.violet7372]

@@esanahka9284 What's wrong with that?

[@19Szabolcs91]

Greece was part of the EU long before any of its neighbours joined.

[@fabulouscat3911]

I believe when Hungary joined they also didn't have a border right?

[@19Szabolcs91]

@@fabulouscat3911 Hungary shares a border with Austria, which was in EU earlier, and it joined the same time as Slovakia and Slovenia which also border it.

[@fabulouscat3911]

@@19Szabolcs91 yeah my mistake that was a NATO thing

[@yugsavla3872]

In thier defence, I struggled to make it over one hurdle during sports at the school

[@khekhe5277]

We (Georgia) are applying for membership tomorrow. Fingers crossed 🇪🇺🇬🇪

[@gamewizardthesecond]

Good luck Georgia! Support from Montenegro 🇲🇪 ❤

[@HaggeBanke]

They gave us Khachapuri, they can join anytime they want according to me.

[@CrabBell]

Georgia is European, do not let glancing at a map deceive you. It's a much stronger case than Turkey, for example.

[@DiogoF.]

It is about time Georgia and Montenegro join the EU already. Both have relevant HDI rankings, economical and stability indicators. Be welcome 🇵🇹🇪🇺

[@marcm.]

It will be delayed. But I am not certain as to the timeline... I suspect that it will be open ended, with a lot of required goals to be achieved

[@robson2939]

I would love to see Georgia in the EU, especially that Georgia is culturally closer to Europe rather than the middle East

[@kaisermarxistdixie6842]

What do you mean culturally Europe.

[@robson2939]

@@kaisermarxistdixie6842 It means exactly what it is written. Georgia does not lie in Europe, it is in Caucas, between Europe and middle East. You can say it is at Europe's doorstep.

[@Lobstersalad-wi4qx]

Its an asian country with the caucus mountains at the northern end in europe...

[@kaisermarxistdixie6842]

@@robson2939 so I asked how is it culturally similar the name of the nation or it's geographic location doesn't matter, to me at least it's a eastern nation with a culture similar to a eastern nation.

[@kaisermarxistdixie6842]

@@robson2939 also Argentina is culturally similar to some European Cultures do you think they should join the Eu as well.

[@lamebubblesflysohigh]

EU should figure itself out first instead of expanding more. Georgia should be our close friend and ally but not joining until the EU is ready for further expansion.

[@thehucklebillyfenn]

As much as I would love Georgia joining the EU, I happen to remember a certain nation invaded Georgia as a result of them trying to join a particular international institution in 2008. I’d hope that if EU members welcome the application, that it also comes with some mutual defense aid against said country.

[@ddoumeche]

A certain nation invaded Georgia because Georgia killed its blue helmets during olympics games, why is there so much revisionism in EU now ?

[@BattlestarZenobia]

I see to remember that Georgia started the war when they launched an attack and that the EU itself confirmed that

[@thehucklebillyfenn]

@@BattlestarZenobia then you didn’t actually read the report. The document literally says, “there is no way to assign overall responsibility for the conflict to one side alone.” In reference to the several provocations that Russia enacted before the Georgian military amassed on the south Ossetian border. They simply mention that the amassing of troops along the border was the straw that broke the camels back in regards to military action by Russia. That was also one report out of several, with some claiming that Russia’s shelling of Georgian military predated the military operation declared by Georgia and therefore were perfectly reasonable to act out of self defense. Think about this for a second, why the hell would Georgia attack Russia? The country with one of the largest militaries in the world and the largest nuclear arsenals.

[@portmoneul]

It's not if, but when. Slow and steady guys. You got this.

[@WalksAlone]

Although Georgia has had connections to Europe since the days of Ancient Greece and could be considered as "European" as the balkan states, I'm afraid that infinite delay will be the mainstay for a while. Especially since the new Russian crisis has popped up with all of its territorial claims and conflicts. The EU just doesn't have the muscle, or the heart, to step into Georgia for the next decade or so..

[@gideonmele1556]

This would be a very interesting (and amusing considering her northern neighbor) geopolitical development

[@dania201]

In 2008 I was wondering why Russia would care so much about tiny bits of a tiny country. Now I get it-while draining Georgia’s national coffers, it limits formal connectivity to Europe and limits NATO expansion in the region. Creative way to keep NATO out. 🧠

[@righthandstep5]

Not really. It's just desperation.

[@xerzy]

imho: let them start the formal process, and heavily push to sort things out. You don't often get to apply a second time, and afaik there's no limit on how long it might take. Like with the case of Serbia/Kosovo though, the situation with Moldova/Transnistria and Georgia/South Ossetia/Abkhazia are alone enough to make EU members like Spain disagree on fundamental topics, let alone the political and military instability it already implies.

[@Ludix147]

I think I support close association with Georgia, but I also think we should first keep the EU together before expanding more. That means more integration in all sectors.

[@reillycurran8508]

Part of me can't help but wonder what the accession process might look like if the EU goes Federal, because now it isn't just joining a free travel, trade, and currency union, it's becoming a member of a foreign country.

[@user-vu6xv4qf7c]

I doubt the EU will become a federation in the near future, if ever. We can already barely stand each other and every member state just cares about its own advancement.

[@EcclesiastesLiker-py5ts]

The integration of states into the US is probably a good model.

[@idraote]

The problem I see is Russia. Russia is a major stumbling stone in every attempt at international peace and cooperation. Not to mention that it is a menace to territorial integrity of a number of countries and things will be worse when the Arctic sea will be free of ice. The second main problem is internal politics. From what we can gather from the video, Georgia is still struggling with democratic issues. The EU has already too many problems with Poland and Hungary (and possibly with Slovenia, now?) to deal with potential problems with Georgia. The other problems, especially the lack of common borders are moot, but these two are vital.

[@innocento.1552]

"Russia is a major stumbling stone in every attempt at international peace and cooperation". I too need a bit of the good stuff you are smoking. Russia does not want NATO at it's doorstep just as NATO will not want Russia at it's doorstep. We should learn to respect the balance of power and punish those who do not respect it. Not usurping it, and crying for the heads of others who do the same.

[@imeretian9446]

@@innocento.1552 If they don't want NATO at their doorstep they should stop violating their neighbours' territorial sovereignty. Problem solved

[@idraote]

@@innocento.1552 the "doorstep" you mention are independent sovereign contries with voting citizens. Besides, Russia has nothing to fear as long as it stays WITHIN its borders and do its things there. I am aware that the US are quite meddling but Russia takes it to another level.

[@_____alyptic]

Both Gov & Public Support? That's quite interesting, really curious to see more about the future of the Union of Europe.

[@tim3440]

Future of Europe? As it continues like this we will see a lot of exits... Nexit movement is growing... Central Bank of the Euro is screwing our pensions...

[@KhaalixD]

Great video!

[@dutchministryofdefence604]

I am a huge EU skeptic. I dont like how the EU gets involved in the politics of other nations. But I do stil suppord the principle on which it was created. I am all for Georgia joining the EU

[@tim3440]

As a dutch person I wouldnt really want Georgia to join. We have enough corrupt countries in the union, plus we have enough burdens in the union...

[@frb1808]

"The EU is hesitant to admit countries with territorial disputes..." You just forgot Cyprus, half of whose territory is under Turkey's control.

[@patrickmccutcheon9361]

Technically this applied also to Ireland which when it joined in 1973 had a territorial claim on Northern Ireland and moreover the ‘troubles’ in NI were at their peak of violence during the negotiation and accession period just before that.

[@oliverthorgrimson5883]

Always thought that past the Bosporus river, the continet changed to Asia but apprently not.

[@boco2837]

To be honest there are much poorer countries in EU than Georgia, so i don't think that Georgia is poorest country in Europe, because it's not, also many EU member countries didn't share land with other EU member country, but they joined anyways. Don't forget that Cyprus is occupied by Turkey, they are member of EU.

[@anonymousguy1785]

I think EU shouldn't expand for now. They should bring something like EU PLUS which only focuses on trade enhancement so that countries like Ukraine, Georgia, Albania, North Macedonia can join without irking Russia.

[@shzarmai]

I would like to see Turkey, Armenia, North Macedonia, Albania and Azerbaijan become EU member countries tbh

[@georgiannationalist1719]

Yeah right? Is it good to live at normal country? What if we also want it? What if we want to sleep without getting nervoused and wish "for let Russians don't start war this night while us sleeping?" Come try live like that and tell me how will u feel

[@kidreative]

if 83% of Georgian wants to join EU, then go for it! if there is a will then there is always a way..

[@mostlymessingabout]

"Ascension" implies an improvement... that's not always the case... "Transition" is probably a better term

[@nikagachechiladze3225]

Thanks for making this video

[@OfficialMonstaMusic]

Hope georgia and ukraine can join the EU. Greetings from Germany, i want to visit beautiful Georgia.

[@fabulouscat3911]

We would love to have you! Sadly your government is the most against us joining 😔

[@grek9117]

@@fabulouscat3911 I think the problem is your big neighbor 😏think about it, anyway, it would be hard for other countries of the union to be so far from their borders

[@fabulouscat3911]

@@grek9117 1. Turkey wasn't for Cyprus 2. Germany will most certainly veto us joining any time in the near future 3. Distance doesn't matter, Georgia is closer to an EU country than Cyprus is. 4. Don't use emojis like that it makes you look more confrontational than you'd think.

[@grek9117]

@@fabulouscat3911 I'm not from Germany but the idea why the Germans veto because they probably get signals from Russia that it will be a problem in relations with the EU and Germany is dependent on Russian gas is another reason and a special emote for you 😑

[@fabulouscat3911]

@@grek9117 the reason is irrelevant, Russia can't veto Georgia's entry, Germany can. The reason they are not letting them in is irrelevant in this instance as they are still not letting them in. I know that Russia is the main opposition, but Germany by being swayed by Russia is equally guilty

[@omarmyia]

Yes, we are ready to receive our fellow Europeans in Georgia and Armenia into the EU! Love, Romania.

[@karenmikayelyan5066]

Hopefully soon 🇦🇲🇪🇺

[@kleuafflatus]

There's actually a lesser known land dispute between Spain and Portugal at the border town of Olivenza. Also the dispute between Gibraltar and Spain, and Ceuta and Melilla. Not to mention the overseas dispute of the French territories around the world, and the Liberland lol

[@smorcrux426]

I think Georgian membership should happen, but I don't know if it could. I don't think it's as insane as it sounds though

[@inferno-shreder5128]

Update: Georgia is gonna sign EU membership real soon

[@sohopedeco]

If Geogia joined the EU, they'd have to update the look of the Euro banknote to include the Georgian alphabet, like they did when Bulgary joined.

[@benvel3392]

Yeah, of course! I think we are all for it.

[@fabulouscat3911]

I mean who wouldn't want the ქართული alphabet?

[@tim3440]

As a dutch person I wouldnt really want Georgia to join. We have enough corrupt countries in the union, plus we have enough burdens in the union...

[@fabulouscat3911]

@@tim3440 Georgia is less corrupt than multiple EU countries

[@tim3440]

@@fabulouscat3911 In some sense I agree... But those countries shouldnt have joined either... Like who on earth thought that it would be a good idea to add Romania?

[@richcymru3976]

I'd love to see both EU and Georgia thriving, I don't think though that there needs to be a union between any countries to achieve this. If Georgia admires the EU and wants closer ties why not adopt all the principles anyway. Enlargement of the EU shouldn't really happen unless it makes complete sense and it doesn't here. If Russia or Turkey joined EU it'd then be a question of why wouldn't they let Georgia join but either is highly unlikely.

[@shittymcrvids3119]

I agree with France, I think we should pause EU expansion and focuse on tightening our relations and solving issues with Poland and Hungary

[@stefandjeric4530]

There's no way that Georgia would join before Serbia and Montenegro, plus its too close to Russia so the EU see's it as a huge risk. The current EU expansion policy is gatekeeping and thats not going to change soon

[@vjp9704]

What? Most of Georgians despise Russia because they invaded Georgia in 2008. Also, Russia blocks Georgia joining NATO by using Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Ukraine and Georgia were the two former Soviet states, after the Baltics, closer to joining NATO and applying for EU membership. But guess what. Russia destroyed and continues destroying their chances.

[@marilenaganea6578]

Serbia will join when they will stop electing crazy nationalistic governments who hate everyone else

[@sonneh86]

I don't see Serbia ever joining

[@sandrogzirishvili6800]

@@marilenaganea6578 isnt that like the most balkan thing to do?

[@marilenaganea6578]

@@sandrogzirishvili6800 not like Serbia, nobody does it like they do it. Bulgaria didn't kill it's neighbors and buried them in unmarked holes... Genocide at scale did the natzi and the Leninists a century ago...now it's frowned upon by everyone

[@emilturangi7145]

You know the drill boys. We see Georgia related content, we say -"Salam from Azerbaijan🖐"

[@Vanyali]

I don't think it will be delayed... there are only so many country's in EU refusing 1 now cause we don't feel like it atm could turn them against Europe in the long run especially since it takes some effort with reforms etc, when they meet all requirements, they should be able to join !

[@alejandrogonzaleznevado1672]

I wish Georgia could join soon but unfortunately it is not easy at the moment. I still wish that one day they can.

[@lepetitroquet9410]

Better question -> Could Russia join the EU ? Short answer, no. Long answer, yes. Whether they can and should join NATO is another question entirely, with almost the same answers to a certain degree...

[@unaihmg9352]

NATO was made against russia

[@patrickstar5136]

I mean the Sovjet Union tried to join NATO before and got rejected so probably not but it would be funny.

[@krombopulos_michael]

Russia joining NATO would kind of defeat the purpose of NATO. The only way any of this could conceivably happen would be if Putin was gone and actual solid democratic institutions were put in place in Russia.

[@lepetitroquet9410]

@@krombopulos_michael Good thing Putin is a mortal human being subject to old age then ^^.

[@bachelor3846]

As a Russian, I would like my country to join the EU 🇷🇺🤝🇪🇺

[@Ggdivhjkjl]

Sounds great! Georgia will support Poland and Hungary on a variety of issues.

[@superduck4945]

🇬🇪🤝🇵🇱

[@occihum9115]

@@nicolae1126 they're, more than Hungary or Poland!

[@occihum9115]

@@nicolae1126 Yes 😎

[@Dan19870]

I feel that this Topic needs it's own poll, asking subscribers and viewers if they support EU expansion or if the EU should consolidate. It would be beneficial to have an EU member state nestled in the Caucasus from which we can trade with surrounding nations and spread European beliefs. A massive investment into Georgia for developing Black Sea Ports, Airports and general infrastructure would benefit to all Georgian's.

[@ketikalaja2546]

I love your videos, I watch them all! Can you please do one on Albania? Thanks 😊

[@noradrenalin8062]

I mean Greece didn't share a border with the rest of the EU either when it joined.

[@ComradeHellas]

Greece: 78km away from Italy (a core EU nation...) Georgia: 850km away from Romania (a newly ascended member in the EU periphery)

[@tim3440]

right... Compare greece and georgia... How does that go? Not good... Well supprising...

[@fischer7368]

Even do I like Georgia, I think before the EU allows them to join. The EU should repair its own issue f.ex. the voting on new laws, gets more and more complicated as more countries join. So f.ex. there are things that needed to be accepted by every country, that is already a problem and will be a bigger problem if the EU lets in more Countries.

[@kaisermarxistdixie6842]

Also better it's relations to Russia, Poland, and Hungary the EU needs to make itself a neutral party mainly concerned with trade rather than a Federalized state and the politics that occur within sovereign nations within the EU.

[@bradavon]

As a Brit to hear most parties being For the EU is plain strange. Good strange but strange.

[@stennan]

Its one thing to meet the requirements in terms of having a solid democratic foundation. Its another thing if it means "another sick man of Europe" that we need to add to the social-spending/redistribution-scheme. As a Swede, I would be happy to include many more countries to our trade and travel union, but if EU expands its geographic zone as well as its scope in terms of transferring power from nations to a central organisation, then I would hesitate. And to all Georgians in the comments: Nothing personal or against your country, from what I have heard it is very beautiful and the people are friendly. It's just that the EU is going in the direction of a superstate, and I'm not sure that is what we signed up for when Sweden joined (heck I couldn't even vote back then).

[@RafaelW8]

I agree with France. EU has to figure out what it is, or what it will be. Will it backslide into just a trade union? Will it fully federalize with a common EU army, foreign and immigration policy and a fiscal union? There are issues that we have to figure out first, before adding any new members. Because any new additional members, will make the process that much slower.

[@NoName-hg6cc]

Agreed. In my opinion, Federation all the way 🇪🇺🇪🇺🇪🇺

[@_Saracen_]

Ah the dream.

[@jakesmall8875]

The e.u needs to take the next step and become the new u.s.a It’ll be great for the world and provide peace world wide And world economics will soar

[@hollandvw4250]

The first three possible roadblocks you quote all have a precedent against them in European construction tbf. Democratic backsliding : we already have Poland, Hungary, Slovenia, Bulgaria in... one more one less... Ongoing territorial conflicts : the whole Northern Cyprus situation didn't really stop Cyprus from entering Isolation : Well Ireland is mostly fine right now? There are a lot of maritime links between it and the French ports, I believe there's also a number of connections from Constanta/Varna/Burgas to Georgia iirc Though yeah the last two are probably the most important

[@fbkintanar]

I don't know what the Eastern Partnership already involves, but it might be useful for the EU to provide a simplified process of alignment to the acquis communautaire (the accumulated legal acts and court decisions of EU law) leading to membership in a customs union and the single market. If any country can get that far, It would only take a bit more effort for full accession. It would likely be a fairly long process to join the single market, and by then a post-Putin Russia may no longer pose an obstacle to regular EU membership. Moldova might have a quicker path to integrating, if they decide to become part of Romania. They have a frozen conflict in Transdniestria which might yet pose an obstacle.

[@tim3440]

The Eastern partnership the Dutch people voted against in great number... This is one of the reasons a nexit movement is growing...

[@william2496]

What about geography? A geographical definition of Europe isn't very set or decisive and I think most will say that being beyond the Black Sea is outside of Europe. This is one of the first precis an ascending country has to abide by which is why Morocco was denied membership instantly.