Georgia's path toward EU integration

Abstract

This dissertation analyses Georgia’s path toward integration with the European Union, with a focus on what the determinants of this relationship are and how these may act as enablers or obstacles towards a further integration. Since its independence in 1991, Georgia has perused closer ties with the Union during its post-Soviet transition, unresolved conflicts with Russia and shifting regional geopolitics. Now, the European Union has positioned itself as Georgia’s leading trading partner and key financial supporter, yet integration has advanced unevenly amid structural vulnerabilities and democratic backsliding in the nation. Hence, this dissertation aims to analyse what is helping Georgia get closer to the EU and what is stopping deeper integration. The introduction outlines the research background, aims, and central question, establishing the significance of Georgia’s European aspirations. Then the literature review looks at relevant literature on Europeanisation, EU conditionality, and post-Soviet integration, positioning Georgia within these broader debates. The methodological framework is outlined in the third chapter, explaining the case study design and mixed-methods approach used to analyse both qualitative and quantitative data. The fourth chapter presents the core findings, examining the economic, political, and societal determinants that act as drivers or obstacles to Georgia’s EU integration. Finally, the conclusion finds that the EU has successfully anchored Georgia within its economic and institutional framework through several enablers including economic and public support. Yet, the country’s full integration remains constrained by structural weaknesses, political polarisation, and inconsistent democratic reform which act as the main obstacles, highlighting that the EU’s integration policy has its limitations.