The Dutch embassy in Georgia reported about the temporary suspension of the MATRA programme, the main goal of which is the development of democracy in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe, as reported by Radio Liberty’s Ekho Kavkaza project.
The diplomatic agency called it a “difficult decision” and explained it by the actions of the Georgian authorities, which led to the deterioration of the situation in the country.
“The temporary halt comes after a rapid deterioration of the situation in the country due to the actions of the Georgian authorities, which are deeply worrying. We hope to be able to host Georgian participants again in the future as the situation in the country improves,” the statement said.
According to the embassy, over the years of the MATRA programme in Georgia, some 200 Georgian officials and civil servants “have participated in a learning process that has contributed significantly to the strengthening of Georgia’s state institutions.”
The Netherlands launched the MATRA programme in 1993. Its initial aim was the social transformation of post-communist countries, but it has since grown to support EU enlargement policies and the European Neighbourhood Policy. The programme, in particular, operates in Ukraine.
The programme implements various projects aimed at reforming society at the local level, and also funds an educational programme that provides scholarships to study in the Netherlands.
For more than a year, Georgian authorities have been passing laws that hinder the work of the civil sector and independent media and limit freedom of speech. The head of the Georgian Dream, who is also Prime Minister, announced on 28 November 2024 that the authorities would no longer raise the issue of starting European integration negotiations. This triggered the start of large-scale rallies, which were repeatedly dispersed by security forces, using excessive force. None of them have been punished for violence against journalists and demonstrators.